author
prince de François-Ferdinand-Philippe-Louis-Marie d'Orléans Joinville
1818–1900
A French prince who chose the sea, he built a life as a naval officer, military writer, and artist rather than a purely ceremonial royal figure. He is especially remembered for bringing Napoleon’s remains back from Saint Helena to France in 1840.
1 Audiobook
Memoirs (Vieux Souvenirs) of the Prince de Joinville
by prince de François-Ferdinand-Philippe-Louis-Marie d'Orléans Joinville
About the author
Born in Neuilly-sur-Seine on August 14, 1818, the Prince de Joinville was the third son of Louis-Philippe, later king of the French. Educated for the navy, he became a prominent French naval officer and rose to the rank of admiral.
He took part in major events of his era, including the 1838 action at Veracruz and the 1840 mission that returned Napoleon’s remains from Saint Helena to France. He was also known for his interest in naval reform and military affairs, and he wrote on those subjects as well as producing artwork.
After the fall of his father’s monarchy in 1848, he spent years in exile, including time in the United States. He died in Paris on June 16, 1900, leaving behind a life that joined royalty, public service, writing, and art.