Jean Baptiste Vaquette de Gribeauval (1715-1789) was known for his successful efforts to reform the artillery arm of the French army during the 18th century. He introduced changes that revolutionized the use of artillery--changes that were later adopted by the American army. Gribeauval also campaigned for reforms to improve the living and working conditions of French soldiers.

Jean Baptiste de Gribeauval was born on September 15, 1715 in France. He joined the French army in 1732, and was promoted to the rank of officer within three years. During the Seven Years' War, which lasted from 1756 until 1763, Gribeauval was attached to the Austrian army as a general of artillery. Between August 6 and October 9, 1762, he defended Schweidnitz against Frederick the Great. Gribeauval was intrigued by the use of artillery that he had observed in Austria. Returning to France as a lieutenant general, he attempted to use the knowledge he had gained in Austria...