The incredible story of Jules Brunet, the French military leader who fought with the samurai

Jules Brunet was born on January 2, 1838, in the small town of Belfort, France.

Growing up in the aftermath of the Napoleonic Wars, Brunet's early life was set against a backdrop of a nation redefining itself.

Showing an early aptitude for military strategy and a keen interest in artillery, he enrolled at the prestigious École Polytechnique in 1857, a breeding ground for French military and engineering talent.

Brunet's time at the École was marked by rigorous academic and military training, molding him into a skilled officer.

He distinguished himself in both theoretical and practical aspects of military science, particularly excelling in artillery, a field that was undergoing rapid advancements during this period.

Upon graduating in 1859, Brunet entered the French Army's artillery branch.

His initial assignments involved standard garrison duties, a common starting point for many young officers.

However, it was during the Franco-Austrian War of 1859 that Brunet first experienced combat, demonstrating his capabilities in the field.

His actions during this conflict, particularly at the Battle of Solferino, showed a promising military tactician in the making.

The experiences gained during these early military engagements provided Brunet with a practical understanding of warfare that would later prove invaluable.

His competence in artillery and military strategy quickly became evident, earning him a reputation as a promising officer in the French Army.

In 1861, Brunet was appointed to the prestigious position of instructor at the École d'Application de l'Artillerie et du Génie in Metz, where he was responsible for training the next generation of French artillery officers.

This role underscored his deep understanding of artillery tactics and technology, and he was well-regarded for his innovative teaching methods and commitment to excellence.

However, his career took a significant turn in 1867, when he was selected to be part of a French military mission to Japan.

This mission, led by Captain Charles Chanoine, was tasked with helping the Tokugawa shogunate modernize its army in the face of internal conflicts and external threats.

Brunet's selection for this mission was a testament to his expertise and the high regard in which he was held by his superiors.

Upon his arrival in Japan in 1867, Jules Brunet's military acumen quickly became a vital asset to the Tokugawa shogunate, which was then grappling with internal strife and the threat of civil war.

The Boshin War, a pivotal conflict that would reshape Japan's political landscape, erupted in January 1868.

Brunet found himself in a complex situation as the war broke out. Despite the official neutrality of France, Brunet's personal sympathies lay with the shogunate, and he chose to offer his military expertise to their cause.

Brunet played a crucial role in reorganizing and training the shogunate's troops, applying his knowledge of contemporary Western military tactics and artillery.

He was instrumental in the Battle of Toba-Fushimi in late January 1868, where his strategic planning and command of artillery units were put to the test.

Despite the shogunate's initial successes, the tide of war quickly turned against them, and they suffered a decisive defeat.

Brunet, undeterred, continued to support the shogunate's efforts, advising them in subsequent battles.

As the shogunate's position deteriorated, Brunet retreated with shogunate forces to the north of Japan, where he continued to play a key role in their military campaigns.

He was involved in the planning and execution of several battles, including the defense of the Aizu domain, a stronghold of shogunate support.

Brunet's dedication to the shogunate's cause did not waver, even as the inevitability of their defeat became apparent.

However, following the fall of the Aizu domain in late 1868, a stronghold of shogunate resistance, Brunet's position became untenable.

He was captured by the forces of the newly established Meiji government in early 1869, marking the end of his active participation in the conflict.

Brunet's capture could have led to severe consequences, given his involvement against the victorious Meiji government.

However, recognizing his status as a foreign military advisor and perhaps appreciating his honorable conduct during the war, the Meiji authorities treated him with respect.

After a brief period of detention, the decision was made to repatriate him to France.

This decision was likely influenced by diplomatic considerations, as the new Japanese government sought to establish favorable relations with European powers.

Brunet's return to France in 1869 was a time of reflection and readjustment.

His experiences in Japan had been profound, both personally and professionally.

Upon his return, he found a nation that was largely unaware of the intricacies of his involvement in the Boshin War.

Nevertheless, his service in Japan was recognized by the French military, and he continued his career in France. 

His return coincided with a tumultuous period in French history, marked by the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871.

Brunet, applying his military expertise, participated in this conflict. His role in the defense of Paris, particularly during the Siege of Paris, was notable.

Despite the eventual French defeat and the hardships of the war, Brunet's leadership and tactical skills were evident.

Post-war, Brunet's career continued to advance. In recognition of his service and abilities, he was promoted through the ranks of the French Army.

By 1881, he had attained the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, and by 1888, he was a Colonel.

His ascent in the military hierarchy was a reflection of his dedication and skill as an officer.

In 1898, Brunet achieved the rank of Brigadier General, a significant milestone in any military career, and a clear indication of the high regard in which he was held.

Brunet's later life also saw him engaged in military education and strategy.

He held positions of responsibility in various military schools and institutions, where he imparted his extensive knowledge to new generations of French military officers.

His teachings were likely influenced by his unique experiences in Japan, offering a broader perspective than many of his contemporaries.

Jules Brunet retired from military service in 1898. His retirement marked the end of a distinguished career that spanned several decades and two continents.

He passed away on August 12, 1911, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication.

Brunet's life journey, from the artillery fields of France to the battlefields of Japan and back, was a testament to his adaptability, skill, and commitment to his profession.