Joachim Murat, born on March 25, 1767, in La Bastide-Fortunière, France, was a prominent figure during the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars. He rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most famous cavalry commanders in history, known for his flamboyant style and bravery in battle.
Murat was the son of a humble innkeeper and initially pursued a career in the church but was drawn into military service by the outbreak of the French Revolution. He joined the National Guard in 1791 and quickly climbed the ranks due to his courage and leadership skills.
In 1800, Murat married Caroline Bonaparte, Napoleon's sister, which solidified his connection with the Bonaparte family. This marriage produced four children, including:
After Napoleon's abdication in 1814, Murat tried to retain his throne in Naples but was forced to flee following the Congress of Vienna's decision to restore the Bourbon monarchy. He attempted to regain his kingdom during the Hundred Days in 1815 but was captured by the Kingdom of Sicily. Murat was executed by firing squad on October 13, 1815, in Pizzo, Calabria.
Joachim Murat's legacy is complex; he was a hero to some for his military prowess and reforms in Naples, yet criticized for his perceived opportunism and eventual betrayal of Napoleon. His flamboyant style and the Murat hat, a type of bicorne, are still remembered in military fashion.