Thomas Jonathan "Stonewall" Jackson, born on January 21, 1824, was a Confederate general during the American Civil War. He was known for his skilled military strategies and his dedication to education. Jackson enlisted in the US Army in 1846 and participated in the Mexican War, defying orders and demonstrating rationality, risk-taking, and innovation. He taught at the Virginia Military Institute and set up Sunday School courses for African Americans.
(Credit: American Battlefield Trust)
Thomas Stonewall Biography: Born on January 21, 1824, Thomas Jonathan “Stonewall” Jackson rose to prominence as a Confederate general during the American Civil War. He was considered by historians as one of the most skilled military strategists in American history. He was a well-known Confederation leader. His death was met with dismay inside the army itself, given his formidable presence and exceptional abilities. We are here to assist you in honoring his birthday.
Born in Harrison County, Virginia, on January 21, 1824, Thomas Jonathan “Stonewall” Jackson was the famous Confederate soldier. His parents were Jonathan Jackson, an attorney, and Julia Beckwith Jackson. Jackson had three siblings: Warren, Elizabeth, and Laura Ann. Later, he lost both his father and his older sister Elizabeth due to typhoid sickness, which left his mother raising three children until she eventually remarried lawyer Captain Blake B. Woodson. As Julia’s condition worsened over time, Jackson’s grandma assumed responsibility for looking after them. His enrollment in the United States Military Academy in New York in 1842 marked the beginning of his military career. His initial academic success made him renowned as one of the most diligent cadets.
Jackson enlisted in the US Army in 1846, marking the beginning of his professional career. He was commissioned into an artillery unit as a second lieutenant. Jackson subsequently participated in the Mexican War, defying a bad order from his commander and exhibiting the qualities that would bring him notoriety in the end: rationality, risk-taking without fear, and innovation. Following that, he was appointed to the brevet rank of major and went back to fighting in Mexico. He began teaching at the Virginia Military Institute in 1851 as a Professor of Artillery Tactics and Natural Philosophy, a new curriculum. Jackson’s severe and rigid teaching methods made him unpopular with the students. At this time, he was also a Sunday School teacher. Jackson was commended for his instructional strategies when he set up Sunday School courses for African Americans at the Presbyterian Church in 1855.
Jackson rejoined the Confederate Army as a Colonel in 1861, returning to the front lines of the Civil War. From then on, his career took off and he soon gained notoriety and promotions. One of his most well-known feats was setting up his brigades in July 1861 on the Bull Run battlefield in a strong line. His forces successfully defended their position against the enemy’s overwhelming assault, earning him the moniker Stonewall. During the Shenandoah Valley Campaign in 1862, Jackson displayed exceptional tactical skills that the Confederate soldiers appreciated and which effectively lifted their morale. Following that triumph, Jackson experienced many highs and lows. In 1863, one of his soldiers accidentally shot him. Though he was barely injured, a week later he passed away from illness.
Jackson began his family life while working as a teacher in the V.M.I. In 1853, he wed Elinor “Ellie” Junkin, the Washington College president. They shared a home that was eventually dubbed the Lee-Jackson House after Robert E. Lee was elected president. Then, in 1854, Junkin tragically away while giving birth. Following his European tour, Jackson wed Anna Morrison. Mary Graham, who died soon after her birth in 1858, and Julia Laura, who was born in 1862 just before Jackson’s death, were their two children.
| Name | Thomas Jonathan Jackson |
| Date of Birth | January 21, 1824 |
| Death Age | May 10, 1863 (age 39) |
| Zodiac sign | Capricorn |
| Height | 5′ 11.5″ |
| Relationship Status | – |
| Net Worth | $400 thousand |
| Social Media | – |
This is how Jackson got his nickname, Stonewall. Jackson exuded confidence in every aspect of his demeanor, even if it meant defying orders from superiors in combat.
Jackson showed that he took education seriously even though he wasn’t the most well-liked teacher by being well-prepared with comprehensive teaching materials prior to his classes. Because of his great moral obligation, morals, and commitment to the cadets’ education, he was derisively referred to as Deacon Jackson and compared to Oliver Cromwell.
In addition to his extraordinary talent and direct yet strict attitude to his job, Jackson was also self-aware and made a concerted effort to improve. This is evident, particularly from his academic years at the military academy.
Jackson attempted to have the cadet expelled from V.M.I. after the latter played a practical joke on him, thereby solidifying the impression that he had a sense of humor.
While others could call him a hypochondriac for worrying too much about becoming really ill, Jackson believed that his extreme concern had helped him stay well.
It is well known that Jackson only ever consumed milk and crackers on a daily basis.
Jackson rarely slept for extended periods of time; instead, he preferred to take catnaps.
Jackson thought that his military strategy and success were influenced by his faith.
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