Armand Carrel (1800-1836)

He was born at Rouen. Entering the army as sub-lieutenant he took a secret but active part in the unsuccessful conspiracy of Belfort. On the outbreak of war with Spain in 1823, Carrel, whose sympathies were with the liberal cause, resigned, and succeeded in escaping to Barcelona. He enrolled in the foreign legion and fought gallantly against his former comrades. Near Figueres the legion was compelled to surrender, and Carrel was taken prisoner by his old general, Damas. There was considerable difficulty about the terms of capitulation, and one council of war condemned Carrel to death. The sentence was not carried out, and he was soon acquitted and freed.
Carrel decided to devote himself to literature. He came to Paris and began as secretary to Augustin Thierry, the historian. His services were found to be of great value, and he obtained admirable training in habits of composition, and was led to investigate for himself some of the most interesting portions of English history.
He gradually became known as a writer in various periodicals; but it was not till he formed his connection with the National that he became a power in France. The National was at first conducted by Adolphe Thiers, François Mignet and Carrel in collaboration; but after the revolution of July, Thiers and Mignet assumed office, and the whole management was left to Carrel.