Stonewall Jackson biography

Stonewall Jackson biography

Learn about the biography and life of Stonewall Jackson including early career, the Civil War, his nickname, the Valley Campaign, Chancellorsville, and interesting facts.

Biography of Stonewall Jackson

After Robert E. Lee, Thomas Jonathan “Stonewall” Jackson served as a Confederate general during the American Civil War. He died on May 10, 1863, and is regarded as one of the most well-known Confederate leaders. Up to his death, he participated prominently in almost every combat action in the Eastern Theater of the war and was crucial to the victory of several important conflicts. He is regarded by military historians as one of the most talented tactical commanders in American history.

Where did Stonewall Jackson grow up?

On January 21, 1824, Thomas Jackson was born in Clarksburg, West Virginia. He had a rough, tragically violent childhood. When he was two years old, his sister and father both passed away from typhoid disease. Once his mother’s illness worsened a few years later, Thomas moved in with his uncle.

Thomas grew up working on the farm with his uncle. When he could, he went to the neighborhood school, but otherwise he largely educated himself by reading books he borrowed.

Education and Early Career

Jackson began working as the county constable when he was 17 years old (like a policeman). The United States Military Academy at West Point then granted him admission. Jackson had to put forth extra effort to succeed at West Point due to his lack of schooling. When he graduated in 1846, all of his diligence had paid off.

Jackson enlisted in the army after graduating from West Point and participated in the Mexican-American War. Jackson achieved significant success in the conflict and attained the position of major. He also had his first encounter with Robert E. Lee. Jackson left the army in 1851 and started working as a professor at the Virginia Military College.

The American Civil War Begins

Jackson enlisted in the Confederate Army in 1861, the year the Civil War began. He first served in Harpers Ferry as a colonel in charge of the men. He quickly attained brigadier general status.

First Battle of Bull Run

At the First Battle of Bull Run, Jackson first rose to reputation as an army general. Throughout the conflict, it appeared for a brief moment that the Union soldiers would breach the Confederate defenses. At Henry House Hill, Jackson and his soldiers dug in and wouldn’t budge. To allow for the arrival of reinforcements, they repelled the Union attack. The Confederates were able to win the fight because to this bold move.

Where did he get the nickname Stonewall?

Jackson took a position at the First Battle of Bull Run, earning the nickname Stonewall. Another general observed Jackson and his men valiantly holding their post throughout the conflict. He pointed out Jackson, who was standing like a stone wall. He adopted the name Stonewall Jackson as of that day forward.

The Valley Campaign

Jackson deployed his army to western Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley in 1862. He attacked Union troops as he swiftly traveled around the valley, winning many fights. Because of their ability to travel between locations so fast as a unit, his army earned the nickname “foot cavalry.”

Other Battles

The following year saw Jackson and his troops take part in numerous well-known conflicts. They participated in battles at Fredericksburg, Antietam, and the Second Battle of Bull Run.

What was he like as a commander?

Jackson was a strict and orderly commander. He was one of the war’s more aggressive generals, never hesitating to engage in combat even when outnumbered. He saw to it that his men were prepared for battle and well-trained.

The Battle of Chancellorsville and Death

Jackson and his men attacked the Union Army’s flank at the Battle of Chancellorsville, causing it to flee. Another Confederate triumph was achieved. Nevertheless, Jackson was unintentionally shot in the arm by his own soldiers after returning from a scouting mission. He appeared to be recovering at first, but then things started to go south. A few days later, on May 10, 1863, he passed away.

Legacy

Many people consider Stonewall Jackson to be a military genius. Even now, military academies still cover some of his warfare strategies. Many places, such as the Stonewall Jackson State Park in West Virginia and the carving on the face of Stone Mountain in Georgia, serve to honor him.

Facts about Stonewall Jackson

• As indentured servants, his grandfather and grandmother immigrated from England. When they were traveling to America via ship, they met and fell in love.
• Laura, his sister, was a staunch Union supporter.
• He was a man of great faith.
• Little Sorrel was the name of his favorite horse.
• “Let us cross over the river, and rest in the shade of the trees,” were his parting words.

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