Stonewall Jackson Essay

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“Stonewall” Jackson “Stonewall” Jackson was one of the most respected Confederate generals and the most gifted tactical commanders in U.S. history during the American Civil War. His fearlessness and bravery in battle soon made him a war hero to the seceding South. “Stonewall” Jackson was a very interesting man with a complex history. He is most remembered for his speed and brutality in battle and many consider him the greatest at leading his troops to victory. Jackson’s personal discipline and religious dedication carried over into his command. His early life led him to attend the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. He used the skills he had been taught at the Academy to join the military and fight multiple epic battles, such as the Mexican …show more content…

He earned his nickname, Stonewall, for bravery at Bull Run and was represented by his famous quote, “You may be whatever you resolve to be” (historynet.com). He led his Confederate troops through some of the most difficult battles of the War. Although it was unknown at the time, some historians believe Jackson’s death on May 10, 1863, signalled the beginning of the ruin of the Confederacy. The loss of Confederate lives and their disastrous defeat at Gettysburg two months later only confirmed that the civil war was coming to an end. “Lee might have done better at Gettysburg, especially if Stonewall Jackson had not been killed at Chancellorsville,” is one of the attitudes taken by war historians about the defeat of the South (history.com). Of course, there were many other contributing factors leading to the demise of the war between the states, but Stonewall Jackson’s leadership was a big factor in the South’s victories throughout the war. Southern society was divided by racism, class, gender, and territorial differences. Historians recognize the enormous force brought to bear by Northern armies and the high casualties suffered by Confederate soldiers. Stonewall Jackson is one of the greatest generals in the civil war. His success as a war general and a professor is recognized by many. His life story will live on