Benjamin Franklin Butler facts for kids

Benjamin Franklin Butler was an American politician and a general during the American Civil War. He was born in New Hampshire in 1818. He became a lawyer in 1840.

During the Civil War, he was one of the first generals in the Union Army. He made an important decision about enslaved people who escaped to Union lines. He did not send them back to their owners. Instead, he called them "Contraband of War." This meant they were like captured enemy property and did not have to be returned. This idea helped many enslaved people gain their freedom.

After the war, he served as the governor of Massachusetts from January 1883 to January 1884. He passed away in 1893.

Early Life and Becoming a Lawyer

Benjamin Franklin Butler was born on November 5, 1818, in Deerfield, New Hampshire. His father was a soldier who fought in the War of 1812. Butler went to Colby College, which was then called Waterville College. He graduated in 1838.

After college, Butler studied law. He became a lawyer in 1840. He practiced law in Lowell, Massachusetts. He became known as a very good lawyer, especially in criminal cases.

Service During the Civil War

When the American Civil War began in 1861, Benjamin Butler joined the Union Army. He quickly became a general. He was one of the first generals appointed by President Abraham Lincoln.

The "Contraband" Decision

One of Butler's most famous actions happened at Fort Monroe in Virginia. Many enslaved people escaped and came to the Union lines. Their owners demanded they be returned. However, Butler refused. He argued that since these people were used to help the Confederate war effort, they were "contraband of war." This meant they were like military supplies captured from the enemy.

This decision was very important. It meant that enslaved people who reached Union lines could gain their freedom. It also showed a new way for the Union to deal with slavery during the war.

Other Military Roles

Butler commanded troops in several important areas. He was in charge of forces in Maryland and later in New Orleans, Louisiana. His time in New Orleans was sometimes controversial. He was known for being strict.

After the War and Political Career

After the Civil War ended, Benjamin Butler continued his career in politics. He was elected to the United States House of Representatives. He served several terms representing Massachusetts.

Governor of Massachusetts

In 1882, Butler was elected as the governor of Massachusetts. He served one term, from January 1883 to January 1884. As governor, he worked on various issues important to the state.

Benjamin Franklin Butler died on January 11, 1893. He is remembered for his military service and his political career. His "contraband" decision had a lasting impact on the lives of many enslaved people during the Civil War.

Images for kids

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  Engraving depicting the Baltimore riot of 1861

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  Map of Fort Monroe, 1862

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  Contemporary drawing of military movements in the Battle of Big Bethel, by Alfred Waud

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  Portrait of Butler in his Union Army uniform, Brady-Handy 1862–1865

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  Benjamin Franklin Butler

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  Johnson impeachment managers Seated L-R: Butler, Thaddeus Stevens, Thomas Williams, John Bingham; Standing L-R: James F. Wilson, George S. Boutwell, John A. Logan

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  Illustration of Butler (left) delivering the opening remarks of the prosecution during the impeachment trial of Andrew Johnson

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  Butler's memorial at the Hildreth family cemetery in Lowell, Massachusetts

See also

In Spanish: Benjamin Franklin Butler para niños