General John French

General John French was a British Army officer who played a significant role during World War I. Born in 1852, he served as the commander of the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) at the war's outset in 1914. French oversaw British military operations in France, where he faced early challenges, including the retreat from Mons and the First Battle of Ypres. His leadership style and decisions were often debated, leading to his eventual replacement in 1915. Despite the controversies, he remained a prominent figure in the British military and later held various military posts until his retirement.