The Enigmatic Chevalier d'Eon: Spy, Diplomat, and Gender Mystery

Could a court of law declare a decorated male spy and diplomat a woman? And could a government then force him to live as one for decades? Unraveling the incredible, true story of the Chevalier d'Eon, one of history's greatest gender mysteries.

EARLY LIFE & ESPIONAGE Born Charles d'Eon de Beaumont in 1728, he was an accomplished scholar and an 'extraordinary adept in riding and fencing'^[1]. His career took a bizarre turn when, 'disguised as a woman,' he undertook a secret mission to the Russian court to gain access to the Empress Elizabeth^[1].

DIPLOMAT & SOLDIER After his success in Russia, d'Eon served openly as a man, even joining his regiment in Germany with the rank of captain^[1]. His diplomatic prowess led him to London, where he was appointed Minister Plenipotentiary to the Court of Great Britain^[1]. A respected public figure.

THE GREAT DEBATE Around 1763, 'doubts began to be circulated about the sex of the Chevalier d’Eon'^[1]. This sparked a public betting frenzy, culminating in a 1771 trial where a jury, without hesitation, solemnly recorded their belief that d'Eon was a woman^[1].

A FORCED IDENTITY The French Court, 'Affecting to believe that he was really a woman,' continued his pension on the condition that he wear female apparel^[1]. For the rest of his life, this accomplished soldier lived as an 'obscure and neglected old woman,' even giving fencing exhibitions in his female costume^[1].