François de Neufville: King Louis XIV's Man At Flanders

François de Neufville: King Louis XIV’s Man At Flanders

Although a brave and gallant soldier (and personal friend to King Louis XIV), François de Neufville knew all to well his command shortcomings.

by Vince Hawkins François de Neufville was born in 1644 in France, the son of Nicolas de Neufville, the Marquis of Villeroi. François came from a noble family that had risen to prominence during the reign of King Charles IX. His father, a marshal of France, had been made a duke by King Louis XIV, and served as the young king’s governor. Being thus brought up at the royal court, François developed a close and friendly relationship with Louis. [text_ad] Destined for a military career, Vi