Alexander Chambers facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Alexander Chambers
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Alexander Chambers
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| Born | August 23, 1832 Cattaraugus, New York |
| Died | February 2, 1888 (aged 55) San Antonio, Texas |
| Buried | |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Army | |
| Rank | General |
| Commands held | 16th Iowa Volunteer Infantry Regiment |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
| Alma mater | West Point |
| Other work | Military judge-advocate |
Alexander Chambers (born August 23, 1832 – died January 2, 1888) was an important officer in the U.S. Army. He became a general during the American Civil War, one of the biggest wars in American history.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Alexander Chambers was born in a place called Cattaraugus, New York. He went to a famous military school called West Point. He finished his studies there in 1853. Many other important generals, like John Schofield and Philip Sheridan, were in his class too!
A Soldier's Journey
After graduating, Chambers became a second lieutenant in the army. He first saw action in the Seminole War starting in 1855. This was a conflict in Florida. He was promoted to first lieutenant in 1859.
The Civil War Begins
In May 1861, soon after the American Civil War began, Alexander Chambers was promoted to captain. He helped with recruiting new soldiers in Iowa. In March 1862, he became a colonel. He then took charge of the 16th Iowa Volunteer Infantry Regiment.
Chambers led his soldiers in some very important battles. He fought bravely at the Battle of Shiloh and the Battle of Iuka. He was injured in both of these battles.
Leading During the War
After recovering from his injuries, Chambers returned to duty. He led a group of soldiers, called a brigade, during the important Vicksburg Campaign. This was a major effort to take control of the city of Vicksburg.
In August 1863, he was named a brigadier general of volunteers. He led a larger group of soldiers, called a division, within the XVII Corps. However, this appointment was later changed by the U.S. Senate.
Later, in December 1868, President Andrew Johnson honored Chambers. He was given the special rank of brevet brigadier general of volunteers. This was to recognize his bravery at the Battle of Champion's Hill.
After the War
After the Civil War ended, Alexander Chambers went back to his rank of captain. He continued to serve in the army. He worked as a military judge-advocate in Nebraska. This means he was a lawyer for the army.
He received more promotions, becoming a major and then a lieutenant colonel. From 1877 to 1878, he served as a military attache to the Ottoman Empire. This role meant he was a military expert working in another country. His last job was leading the soldiers at Fort Townsend.
Later Life and Legacy
Alexander Chambers passed away in San Antonio, Texas, on January 2, 1888. At the time, he held the rank of colonel in the 17th U.S. Infantry Regiment. He was buried in Owatonna, Minnesota.
