Jean Arago

Biography

Jean Arago entered the world on 25 May 1788 in Estagel, Roussillon, as the second of six boys born to François Bonaventure and Marie Arago. His eldest brother, François, made his name as an astronomer, physician, and French politician. Another brother, Jacques, sailed with Louis de Freycinet on the Uranie expedition from 1817 to 1821 before turning to journalism and playwriting. Victor served as a French soldier, Joseph fought in the Mexican army, and Étienne reportedly co-wrote The Heiress of Birague with Honoré de Balzac and produced numerous light comedies, often with collaborators.

During the Second Restoration, Jean Arago worked as Treasurer of the Perpignan Mint. After losing that post, he sailed for New Orleans. Drawing on military administration skills he had picked up as secretary to General Duhesme, he signed on with Mexican rebels and fought in their War of Independence against Spain from 1816 to 1821. His courage and tactical ability stood out, and after a revolt by officers against Father Torres, he was made commander-in-chief in 1818.

General Santa Anna owed many of his early victories to Arago. Once Ferdinand VII’s forces were beaten, the victors promoted him to general. In 1836, while suffering from dropsy, he joined the Texas Expedition. Near the end of June, he headed back to Mexico City, where he died on 9 July 1836.