750 meters long that’s Rue Abraham Duquesne. It begins at 29 Avenue de Tourville. It ends at 6 Rue Eblé. This Parisian street in the 7th arrondissement is named after a remarkable figure. Abraham Duquesne a lieutenant general of the naval armies. He lived from 1610 to 1688.
Duquesne’s life was one of daring naval battles. He served under Louis XIII during the Thirty Years’ War. He fought against the Spanish. He distinguished himself in battles like Tarragone and Cape Gata. A Huguenot his religion hampered his advancement. Despite Louis XIV’s wishes he refused to renounce his faith.
In 1644 he lost a ship. Mysteriously he left the French navy. He joined the Swedish navy under Queen Christina. He returned to France during the Fronde. He remained loyal to the king.
During the Dutch Wars Duquesne’s skills were needed. Initially accused of reluctance to obey orders after the Battle of Solebay. His Protestantism also became an obstacle. He was initially removed from his command.
Yet his talent was undeniable. He was chosen to aid Sicilian rebels against Spain. He fought bravely into Messina. He captured Agosta Augusta before returning to France for supplies. He decisively defeated the Spanish and Dutch fleets. These victories were at Agosta and Palermo in April and June 1676.
In 1681 he was made a marquis. His unwavering Protestantism prevented him from becoming admiral. However he was allowed to retire peacefully despite the revocation of the Edict of Nantes in 1685. He died in Paris in February 1688.
Rue Abraham Duquesne stands as a tribute. A silent testament to this extraordinary man. A Huguenot naval officer who defied convention. His legacy lives on in the name of this Parisian street. A reminder of his courage skill and unwavering faith. Remember as you walk this street. You walk in the footsteps of a legend.