A question for you: Ever wondered who Lieutaud was? Here at Traverse Lieutaud, we honor a man of Marseille. This path bears the name of Jean-François Lieutaud. He was a key figure during the French Revolution. Let’s delve into the story behind this Traverse Lieutaud.
Jean-François Lieutaud was more than just a name. He was the commander of Marseille’s National Guard. This was during a turbulent time in French history. Born into a wealthy family, Lieutaud initially lived off his inheritance. He later became deeply involved in the revolutionary movement.
In 1789, Lieutaud participated in Marseille’s revolutionary actions. By 1790, he became a municipal officer. That same year, he was elected commander. He replaced the resigning Chevalier de Greling. The National Guard had seized three city forts. These were Fort Saint-Jean, Fort Saint-Nicolas, and Notre-Dame de la Garde. This was due to fears of an aristocratic plot.
Lieutaud was tasked with overseeing the demolition of these forts. The people of Marseille had begun this destruction. However, the National Assembly halted it in June 1790. Despite his gambling habits and shady connections, Lieutaud had popular support. Merchants also favored him at the time of his election.
Driven by personal ambition, he soon abused his power. Lieutaud reorganized the National Guard. He created a war council that allowed him to control decisions. For instance, he mandated uniforms for the guards. This went against the wishes of the municipality. He also organized gambling dens. These generated funds to maintain support within the local government.
Lieutaud faced constant conflict with a local political club. He used every opportunity to slander them. During a trip to Paris for the Federation Festival, he met La Fayette. Upon returning to Marseille, he clashed with the new mayor, Jean-Raymond Mourraille. The conflict escalated when Lieutaud attacked the political club. In response, Marseille’s municipality dissolved the National Guard’s headquarters. They called for new elections. Antoine Cabrol de Moncoussou replaced Lieutaud.
After riots in Aix-en-Provence, Lieutaud fled to Nice. A storm forced his ship to Bandol. He was arrested in Marseille on charges of corruption. Joseph d’André secured his release through a National Assembly decree. Lieutaud escaped Marseille disguised as a Swiss Guard.
He joined the royal guard in Paris. Following the attack on the Tuileries Palace in 1792, he was arrested. Despite the discovery of unexplained wealth, he was acquitted. Lieutaud retired to La Charité-sur-Loire. He later lived in Normandy. He eventually died in Paris.
Today, the Traverse Lieutaud and the Cours Lieutaud commemorate his life. The Cours Lieutaud, a major thoroughfare in Marseille, was built on land owned by his family. It connects key areas of the city. This street has faced many changes. It was initially a residential area for the bourgeoisie. Later, it became a major traffic artery. Recent renovations aim to restore its original character.
Standing here at Traverse Lieutaud, remember Jean-François Lieutaud. He was a figure of ambition and controversy during a pivotal moment in Marseille’s history. His story is etched into the very streets we walk upon.