Army of Arkansas facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Army of Arkansas |
|
|---|---|
| Active | 1863–1865 |
| Country |  United States of America |
| Branch |  United States Army |
| Type | Field army |
| Engagements | American Civil War |
| Commanders | |
| Notable commanders |
Frederick Steele Joseph J. Reynolds |
The Army of Arkansas was a special group of soldiers from the Union Army during the American Civil War. They fought only in the state of Arkansas. This army was part of the war's "Trans-Mississippi Theater." This means they operated west of the Mississippi River.
Contents
History of the Army of Arkansas
How the Army Started
The Army of Arkansas was formed on July 27, 1863. Major General Frederick Steele was put in charge of this new army. It was created after two big Union wins. These wins happened at Vicksburg and Helena on July 4, 1863. These victories helped the Union control the Mississippi River. This also opened the way to take Little Rock in Arkansas. The goal was to bring Arkansas back into the Union.
Key Missions and Commanders
The Army of Arkansas was made up of soldiers already in Union-controlled parts of Arkansas. General Steele led the army in its two most important missions. These were the Little Rock Expedition and the Camden Expedition.
During the Little Rock Expedition, the army had three main groups of soldiers. These groups were led by John W. Davidson, Adolph Englemann, and Samuel A. Rice.
Later, during the Camden Expedition, the army was mostly known as the VII Corps. It had divisions led by Frederick Salomon, John M. Thayer, and Eugene A. Carr.
Changes in Leadership
General Steele was replaced as the army's commander on December 22, 1864. Major General Joseph J. Reynolds took over. Reynolds was in charge during Price's Missouri Raid. His troops helped chase the enemy during this time. Reynolds stayed in command until the war ended in 1865.
Commanders
- Major General Frederick Steele (July 27, 1863 – December 22, 1864)
- Major General Joseph J. Reynolds (December 22, 1864 – August 1, 1865)
Major Battles
- Battle of Bayou Fourche (led by Steele)
- Camden Expedition (led by Steele)
