A Confederate general during the American Civil War, known for his tactical skills and bravery, particularly at the Battle of Gettysburg.
Richard S. Ewell is remembered as a prominent Confederate general during the American Civil War, known for his bravery and strategic prowess on the battlefield. He fought alongside legendary commanders Stonewall Jackson and Robert E. Lee, earning a reputation as a skilled and effective military leader.
Born on February 8, 1817, in Georgetown, Washington D.C., Ewell was raised in Prince William County, Virginia. He graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1840, 13th in his class of 43 cadets. Nicknamed "Old Bald Head" or "Baldy" by his friends, Ewell was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the 1st U.S. Dragoons.
During the Mexican-American War, Ewell distinguished himself under General Winfield Scott, earning recognition and promotion to captain for his bravery at the Battle of Contreras and the Battle of Churubusco. He later served in the New Mexico Territory, exploring the Gadsden Purchase with Colonel Benjamin Bonneville. In 1859, Ewell was wounded in a skirmish with Apaches under Cochise.
In 1860, illness forced Ewell to return to Virginia, where he joined the Confederate States Army. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a brigadier general in 1861. Ewell fought in several key battles, including the First Battle of Bull Run, the Shenandoah Valley Campaign, and the Seven Days Battles.
Ewell married Lizinka Campbell Brown in 1863, and the couple had one daughter, Lizinka Campbell Ewell. After the war, Ewell returned to Virginia, where he died on January 25, 1872. Despite controversy, Ewell remains an important figure in American military history, remembered for his bravery, strategic prowess, and dedication to the Confederate cause.
Ewell's military career spanned multiple conflicts, from the Mexican-American War to the American Civil War. His experiences and decisions continue to be studied by historians and military strategists. While controversy surrounds his legacy, Ewell remains an important figure in American military history.
Born in 1807
Led the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War, surrendering to Union forces at Appomattox, marking the war's effective end.
Born in 1824
A Confederate general during the American Civil War, he's renowned for his unconventional tactics and bravery, earning him a legendary status among military historians.
Born in 1821
A Confederate general during the American Civil War, later serving as a diplomat and ambassador to Turkey, known for his military strategies and post-war reconciliation efforts.
Born in 1825
A Confederate general during the American Civil War, known for his bravery and tactical skills, leading troops in several key battles, including the Battle of Chancellorsville.
Born in 1831
A Confederate general during the American Civil War, known for his bravery and aggressive tactics, but also criticized for his reckless decisions that led to devastating defeats.
Born in 1817
A Confederate general during the American Civil War, he's infamous for his tactical blunders and defeats, ultimately losing the war for the South.
Born in 1822
Led the Union Army to victory in the Civil War and later became President, known for issuing the Emancipation Proclamation and strengthening federal authority.