Jean-André van der Mersch (also known as Jan Andries vander Mersch or Jan André van der Meersch) (Menen, 1734 – Dadizele, 14 September 1792) was a leading figure in the Brabant Revolution best known for his victory against Austrian forces of Joseph II at the Battle of Turnhout in 1789.
Jean-André van der Mersch | |
|---|---|
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| Born | |
| Baptised | 10 January 1734 |
| Died | 14 September 1792 |
| Nationality | Belgian |
| Occupation | Army officer |
| Political party | Vonckist |
He served the French King as an officer during the Seven Years' War and participated in the Battle of Rossbach (1757) and the Battle of Hochkirch (1758).[1] He joined the Austrian army in 1778 before retiring with the rank of colonel.[2]
In 1789 he accepted the invitation of Jan Frans Vonck to become the commander of the patriot army which fought in the Brabant Revolution.[2]
References
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- ^ Heinrich, Benedikt (1965). Als Belgien Österreichisch war. Vienna: Verl. Herold. p. 232.
- ^ a b Traugott, Mark (2010). The Insurgent Barricade. Berkeley: University of California Press. ISBN 978-0520266322.