James Longstreet

Profession: Confederate General

Nationality:

Biography: James Longstreet was an American general who was a central commander on the Confederate side in the American Civil War, serving as one of the principal subordinates to General Robert E. Lee. He served as a senior commander in the Army of Northern Virginia and was known for his effective strategy, solid judgment, and steady demeanor, which led Lee to call Longstreet his "Old War Horse."

Born in South Carolina, Longstreet grew up in Georgia and Alabama. He graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1842 and served in the Mexican–American War, where he distinguished himself. He would ultimately serve under General Lee, as well as General Braxton Bragg in the Army of Tennessee.

During the Civil War, Longstreet quickly rose through the ranks of the Confederate Army. He played key roles in many important battles, including the Battle of Antietam, the Battle of Gettysburg, and the Battle of Chickamauga. At Gettysburg, he famously disagreed with General Lee in advocating for a more defensive strategy.

After the war, Longstreet's reputation suffered in the South because he joined the Republican Party during Reconstruction, endorsed Ulysses S. Grant's presidency, and accepted administrative positions from Grant's administration. This made him a controversial figure in the post-war South, and many former Confederates viewed him as a traitor.

Longstreet's later years were marked by efforts to reconcile the North and South. He also worked on various business ventures and wrote his memoirs, titled From Manassas to Appomattox, in which he offered his perspectives on the war and defended his record. In recent years, historical reassessment has been kinder to Longstreet, recognizing his military skill and his efforts towards reconciliation and civil rights.

Born: January 8, 1821
Birthplace: Edgefield, South Carolina, USA
Star Sign: Capricorn

Died: January 2, 1904 (aged 82)