Lazare Carnot

Lazare Carnot (1753-1823), French statesman and military engineer, born in Nolay, and prominent during the French Revolution. He became a member of the Legislative Assembly in 1791, of the National Convention in 1792, and of the Committee of Public Safety in 1793. Although never in full command, Carnot was the principal strategist of the victories of French troops in the battles of 1792-1795. His aptitude for military tactics made him known as the Organizer of Victory.

During the complex events that followed the Reign of Terror and continued through the accession of Napoleon, Carnot moved in and out of France several times. He died in exile in Magdeburg, Germany. Books written by Carnot include several on mathematical theory, but considered more important are his works on military tactics. De la Défense des Places Fortes (On the Defence of Fortresses, 1810) is a classic study of fortification.