Stonewall Jackson | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : April 11, 2025

Who is Stonewall Jackson?

Stonewall Jackson, born Thomas Jonathan Jackson on January 21, 1824, in Clarksburg, Virginia, was a pivotal Confederate general during the American Civil War. Renowned for his military tactics, he served steadfastly under General Robert E. Lee and earned a reputation as one of the war's most effective commanders. Jackson's notable engagements include the First Battle of Bull Run, Antietam, and Fredericksburg, where his strategic brilliance led to significant Confederate victories. His tactical ingenuity was further highlighted during the Valley Campaign, where swift maneuvers and decisive actions proved instrumental against Union forces.

Jackson's life was marked by both personal tragedy and professional acclaim. Orphaned at a young age, he overcame adversity to graduate from West Point, where he initially struggled academically. His military career began with distinction during the Mexican-American War, leading him to a professorship at the Virginia Military Institute. Despite his eccentric teaching style and cold demeanor, he was highly regarded for his knowledge of artillery tactics. However, his legendary status was ultimately cemented through his remarkable contributions to the Confederate war effort until his untimely death from friendly fire in May 1863 at the age of 39. His legacy endures as a complex and controversial figure in American history.

Early Life and Education

Stonewall Jackson, born Thomas Jonathan Jackson on January 21, 1824, in Clarksburg, West Virginia, faced significant hardships early in his life. Following the death of his father and sister due to typhoid fever when he was just two years old, Jackson's mother struggled to support her family. This led to her remarriage in 1830, but conflict with his stepfather resulted in Jackson and his siblings being sent to live with relatives. The loss of his mother during childbirth in 1831 compounded his childhood struggles, leaving him under the care of his father's brothers and shaping his resilient character.

After attending local schools, Jackson’s academic journey led him to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1842, where he was admitted only after a vacancy arose in his congressional district. Despite being older than most of his classmates and facing ridicule for his modest background, Jackson demonstrated exceptional determination. His early struggles with coursework motivated him to succeed, and he graduated in 1846, ranking 17th in a class of 59. This academic foundation would serve him well as he transitioned into military service during the Mexican-American War, where he gained valuable experience and made the first of many significant connections in the military, including with Robert E. Lee.

Military Career Beginnings

Stonewall Jackson’s military career began when he graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1846. Shortly after his graduation, he joined the 1st U.S. Artillery as a second lieutenant and was promptly deployed to the front lines during the Mexican-American War. His impressive feats during this conflict, including participation in significant battles such as Veracruz, Contreras, and Chapultepec, helped Jackson rise through the ranks, culminating in his promotion to brevet major. It was during this time that he formed a pivotal relationship with General Robert E. Lee, whose leadership would later influence Jackson’s strategies in the Civil War.

After his service in the Mexican-American War, Jackson returned to civilian life in 1851, accepting a teaching position at the Virginia Military Institute in Lexington, Virginia. As a professor, he specialized in natural philosophy and artillery tactics, where his unique teaching style and eccentricities, although unpopular with students, earned him respect as an effective instructor. Jackson’s past military experience and academic background prepared him for the challenges of leadership during the impending Civil War, as he began to develop his reputation for tactical brilliance and steadfastness. When Virginia seceded from the Union, Jackson made a pivotal choice to serve the Confederacy, solidifying the foundation of his military career.

Civil War Successes and Achievements

Stonewall Jackson emerged as one of the most formidable Confederate generals during the American Civil War, primarily under the command of General Robert E. Lee. His military prowess was first highlighted at the First Battle of Bull Run in July 1861, where his steadfast defense earned him the nickname "Stonewall." This moniker symbolized his unwavering resilience in battle, a characteristic that would define his military career. Following this victory, Jackson was promoted to major general, a testament to his leadership abilities and tactical acumen. His deployment of the famed "Stonewall Brigade" galvanized Confederate forces, setting a precedent for his methodical yet aggressive military strategies.

In 1862, Jackson's lauded Valley Campaign showcased his ability to maneuver swiftly and decisively against Union forces, leading to a string of impressive victories. His offensive tactics at the battles of Cedar Mountain and the Second Battle of Bull Run proved instrumental in turning the tide in favor of the Confederacy. Furthermore, his involvement in the Battle of Fredericksburg and the stunning victory at Chancellorsville demonstrated his talent for devising cunning battle strategies, impacting the overall momentum of the war. Despite significant challenges, Jackson's military achievements solidified his legacy as one of the Civil War's most prominent and skilled commanders, though tragedy would soon cut his career short.

Personal Life: Married Life and Children

Stonewall Jackson experienced significant bittersweet moments in his personal life, particularly when it came to marriage and family. In 1853, he married Elinor Junkin, the daughter of a Presbyterian minister, but their union was tragically short-lived. Elinor died in October 1854 during childbirth, bringing immense grief as she gave birth to a stillborn son. This heartbreaking loss left a profound impact on Jackson, who was known for his solemn demeanor.

After a period of mourning, Jackson remarried in July 1857 to Mary Anna Morrison. They welcomed their first daughter in April 1859, but, like before, tragedy struck as the infant lived less than a month. Despite these losses, Jackson and Mary had another daughter, Julia, in 1862. The couple’s devotion to one another and their children seemed to provide Jackson with solace amid the turbulent times of the Civil War.

Net Worth and Earning: Salary

Stonewall Jackson, known for his remarkable military strategies, has left an indelible mark on American history. However, when it comes to his financial standing during his lifetime, specific records detailing his net worth or salary are scarce. As a Confederate general and professor at the Virginia Military Institute, Jackson's earnings likely included his military salary and income from his professorial role, which was modest by today’s standards. Given the era and the troubled times of the Civil War, financial prosperity was not a primary concern, especially for someone wholly committed to his military duties.

Throughout the Mexican-American War and the American Civil War, Jackson earned promotions and accolades, which indirectly contributed to his status and income. His tenure as a professor also would have provided a steady but limited income, reflecting the norms of academic salaries of that period. After his tragic death in 1863, the financial implications for his family were profound, which underscores how military leaders like Jackson were often not wealthy despite their fame and service. His legacy rests on his tactical genius, not on financial gain.

FAQs

Who was Stonewall Jackson?
Stonewall Jackson, whose full name was Thomas Jonathan Jackson, was a Confederate general during the American Civil War. Born on January 21, 1824, he became known for his tactical brilliance and served under General Robert E. Lee. Jackson played a key role in several major battles, including Manassas, Antietam, and Fredericksburg.

What was his early life like?
Jackson’s early life was marked by hardship. He lost both of his parents at a young age and faced many challenges growing up. Despite these obstacles, he was determined and eventually graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1846. His military career began during the Mexican-American War, where he earned a reputation as a capable and courageous soldier.

What did he do outside of the battlefield?
Before the outbreak of the Civil War, Jackson worked as a professor at the Virginia Military Institute. He was known for his strict teaching style and unusual habits, including his concerns about his health, which some attributed to hypochondria. His personality made a strong impression on his students and colleagues alike.

How did Stonewall Jackson die?
Tragically, Jackson’s life ended prematurely when he was accidentally shot by his own troops during the Battle of Chancellorsville in May 1863. He died from complications related to his injuries on May 10, 1863. Despite his early death, Jackson remains one of the most respected and legendary generals of the Civil War.