Jean-Franois Allard (1785 - 1839), was a French soldier and adventurer. Born in Saint Tropez, he served in Napoleon's army. He was awarded the Lgion d'honneur, and promoted to Captain of the 7th Hussars. In 1820, Allard left for Punjab, where he in 1822 entered the service of the Maharaja Ranjit Singh. He was commissioned to raise a corps of dragoons and lancers. On completion, Allard was awarded the rank of general,and became the leader of the European officer corps in the Maharaja's service.