In 1770 he entered the engineering school at Mezires and became a captain in 1783. He was elected to the legislature in 1791 and then to the Convention in 1792, where he voted for the death of the king. The success of his mission in the Army of the North led to his appointment to the Committee of Public Safety in August 1793. He was called the Organiser of Victory. Opposed to Robespierre, he took part in his downfall. Appointed director in December 1795, he ensured the continuity of military policy under the Directoire and drew up plans for the campaign against England and Austria. Threatened with arrest after the coup d'Žtat of 18-Fructidor, he went into exile in Germany. On his return to France, he was Minister of the Interior during the Hundred Days.Document signed "Carnot pres. (president)" as President of the Executive Directory and countersigned by Secretary Lagarde and Minister of War Petiet; Paris, 12 FlorŽal Year IV (May 1, 1796), 1 p. folio, vignette, header and partly printed text, seal under paper; a small scratch, slight fatigue of the folds. Second lieutenant's certificate issued to citizen Claude Chenon, sergeant in the 22nd Regt. of infantry promoted to the 3rd battalion of the 44th half brigade, etc... The part of the certificate which should cover the campaigns, actions and injuries of the person concerned, soldier in the 23rd infantry in 1783 and passed through the ranks, remained white.