Jacques de La Palice was a French nobleman and military leader born in the late 15th century. He is best known for his role in the Italian Wars, where he served as a commander for King Francis I of France. La Palice was killed in battle in 1525 during the Battle of Pavia, which was a significant defeat for the French forces. His name became associated with a type of humorous statement known as a "La Palice" or "palindrome," which refers to a statement that is obviously true but redundant. This connection arose from a posthumous song that exaggerated his bravery, leading to the phrase "If he hadn't died, he would still be alive."