The Boy Generals of the Union Army

 

Wesley Merritt

There were notably young officers, often in their early-to-mid 20s, who rose rapidly to brigadier general, especially in the cavalry of the Army of the Potomac.

The most prominent group includes three cavalry officers promoted from captain to brigadier general in June 1863, skipping several ranks, often called the "boy generals."

George Armstrong Custer. Promoted at age 24, Custer was a flamboyant West Point graduate known for his bold charges and long hair. He commanded the Michigan Cavalry Brigade at Gettysburg and later led aggressively in the Overland Campaign, Shenandoah Valley, and Appomattox Campaign. His division played a key role in pursuing Lee's army. Post-war, he became famous (and died) at the battle of the Little Bighorn.

Wesley Merritt promoted at age 27, Merritt was more methodical and professional than Custer, with whom he had a rivalry. He commanded a brigade and later a division in the Cavalry Corps. Key actions included Gettysburg, the 1864–65 Virginia campaigns, and the final pursuit to Appomattox. He had a long, distinguished post-war career in the Indian Wars and the Spanish-American War.

Elon J. Farnsworth promoted at age 26, Farnsworth was promoted alongside Custer and Merritt but was killed at Gettysburg on July 3, 1863—just days into his generalship. He led a controversial and costly charge against Confederate infantry and was mortally wounded. His death symbolized the risks of youthful, aggressive leadership.

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