Joseph Joffre

ModernGeneralFrance1852 — 1931

French commander who saved Paris at the Marne in 1914.

Compare Joseph Joffre with another historical figure:

Quick Facts

Born

1852

Died

1931

Country

France

Era

Modern

Occupation

General

Score Overview

Military (10%)65

Political (20%)63

Influence (20%)82

Legacy (20%)52

Leadership (15%)62

Strategy (15%)61

Total Score64.8

Joseph Joffre — Complete Timeline

1914 AD

First Battle of the MarneWar

As Commander-in-Chief of the French Army, Joffre oversaw the French retreat and then the counterattack at the First Battle of the Marne. The victory saved Paris and prevented a quick German victory in the West.

World War IWestern FrontVictory

Impact: global

Battle of the FrontiersWar◆ Major

Joffre launched the Battle of the Frontiers, a series of French offensives into Alsace-Lorraine and Belgium. The attacks failed with heavy casualties, exposing flaws in French war planning and leading to the German advance.

World War IWestern FrontOffensive

Impact: regional

1916 AD

Replaced as Commander-in-ChiefPolitical Action◆ Major

Joffre was replaced as Commander-in-Chief of the French Army due to the heavy losses at Verdun and the Somme, and political criticism. He was promoted to Marshal of France but given a largely ceremonial role.

World War ICommandDismissal

Impact: national