Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson Sean Dugan

Early Life Thomas Jonathan Jackson was born January 21, His parents were Julia Beckwith Jackson and Jonathan Jackson. By the time Thomas Jackson was seven years old, both of his parents were dead. Thomas Jackson was sent to live with his uncle, Cummings Jackson.

West Point Thomas Jackson was accepted to United States Military Academy at West Point. Jackson started at the bottom of his class, when he entered in By the time that Jackson graduated he was number 17 in his class of 59 students, he graduated in 1846.

Early Military Career Jackson started his military career by serving in the Mexican-American War. He became the rank of first lieutenant by the end of the war. When in Mexico during the War, Jackson first met Robert E. Lee

Virginia Military Institute Jackson became a teacher at VMI in Lexington, Virginia. He was Professor of Natural and Experimental Philosophy and Instructor of Artillery. His teachings are still used today at VMI. Jackson was not well liked by his students, they even tried to get him removed from his position.

Civil War When the Civil War broke out, Thomas Jackson served for the Confederate States Army. At first Jackson was drill master for new recruits of the Confederate Army Soon though was asked to command the “Stonewall Brigade”.

“Stonewall” In the First Battle of Bull Run, Thomas Jackson sent in reinforcements from is brigade to stop the Confederate Army from crumbling. This was the battle where Jackson received his nickname “Stonewall”. The nickname was inspired by General Bernard Elliott Bee Jr. Apparently during the battle Bee shouted, "There is Jackson standing like a stone wall.” After this battle Jackson was promoted to major general.

Valley Campaign In the Valley Campaign, Jackson’s reputation quickly grew. Jackson marched his army 646 miles in 48 days and won five battles with an army a third of the size of his opponent. He received the nickname “foot cavalry”, because of his reputation of moving his troops so quickly.

Other Battles Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson also had great success in the battles of Second Bull Run, Antietam, and Fredericksburg. In the Seven Days Battles, Jackson did not receive the same success. The actions of Jackson during these battles were considerate poor and sluggish.

Death Jackson was walking back to his camp, when he was shot by a member of his own army accidentally. He was mistaken for a Union solider, and was shot three times. Jackson’s left arm had to be amputated because of the wounds. He died eight days later due to complications of pneumonia.

Effect on the South The death of Thomas Jackson was a huge blow the Confederation. The south was losing the service of the great commander, and it lowered the morale of the Confederation significantly. When Robert E. Lee heard of the death of Jackson, he said, “I have lost my right arm”.

Significance of Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson He is considered one of the best commanders to ever live. He helped the Confederacy win key battles over the Union. His works and teachings are still used today He was one of the most prominent figures in the Civil War.