A former cavalry officer from the minor nobility, d’Elbée initially accepted the early Revolution and served in local government at Saint-Martin-de-Beaupréau, but later opposed its religious policies. He joined the uprising in the Mauges in March 1793 and became one of the principal commanders of the Catholic and Royal Army during the War in the Vendée. Chosen to succeed Cathelineau as generalissimo in July, he commanded during the defeat at Luçon and the Vendéan victories at Coron and Torfou, before being gravely wounded in the defeat at Cholet on 17 October. He took refuge on Noirmoutier, where he was captured when Republican forces retook the island. Unable to stand because of his wounds, he was executed by firing squad in January 1794 while seated in a chair.
