“The Carmagnoles”
Description
In 1793 the French planted "a symbol of great Liberty." In 1794 "they gave to Flanders liberty." June 1 the French convoy was saved from British attack. The Batavian line extends freedom to the Netherlands. Kings and drones will "tumble unlamented"
Notes
Moylan: "The 'Great Batavian Line' refers to the regime established by the French revolutionaries in the Netherlands." - BS
Moylan's description of the battle pretty well sums up the result of the June 1 battle: It helped the current French government survive. But the British name for the battle reveals something about how the winners felt about the result: They called it "The Glorious First of June." And the French losses would weaken their fleet for years, and the psychological blow was also significant. - RBW
Historical references
- 1793 - French Revolution: France declares war on Great Britain and Holland (source: Moylan)
- June 1-3, 1794 - "[Admiral] Villaret-Joyeuse's squadron was attacked off Ouessant by Admiral Howe and lost seven ships in the three-day battle. Nevertheless he kept the way clear for the hundred grain transports to reach the port of Brest, which was on the verge of starvation. (source: Moylan)
References
- Moylan 20, "The Carmagnoles" (1 text, 1 tune)
- BI, Moyl020