Posts
William Paul Roberts
(1841–1910) earned the distinction of becoming the youngest general officer in
the Confederate States Army. Born in Gates County, North Carolina, he enlisted
as a private in the 15th North Carolina Infantry at age 19. His bravery and
leadership shone through in battles like Fredericksburg and Brandy Station.
Rising rapidly through the
ranks, Roberts commanded cavalry units. On February 23, 1865, at just 23 years
old, he was promoted to brigadier general, leading a cavalry brigade in the
Army of Northern Virginia during the war’s final campaigns.
After Appomattox, he returned
to civilian life as a farmer, legislator, and state auditor.
Alexandria, 1861-1865 (Images of America: Virginia)
No comments:
Post a Comment