Louis François de Boufflers, Duke of Boufflers was a prominent French soldier in the age of Louis XIV of France. He was created count of Cagny and duke of Boufflers and named marshal of France. He was famed for his excellent defensive leadership during the sieges of Namur and Lille, next to his conduct during the Battle of Malplaquet.

The siege of Lille was the salient operation of the 1708 campaign season during the War of the Spanish Succession. After an obstinate defence of 120 days, the French garrison surrendered the city and citadel of Lille, commanded by Marshal Boufflers, to the forces of the Duke of Marlborough and Prince Eugene.