Gabriel René Paul facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Gabriel René Paul
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| Born | March 22, 1813 St. Louis, Missouri |
| Died | May 5, 1886 (aged 73) Washington, D.C. |
| Place of burial | |
| Allegiance | United States Union |
| Service/ |
United States Army Union Army |
| Years of service | 1834–1865 |
| Rank |  Brigadier General |
| Unit | 7th U.S. Infantry 8th U.S. Infantry |
| Battles/wars | Seminole Wars Mexican–American War |
Gabriel René Paul (born March 22, 1813 – died May 5, 1886) was an important officer in the United States Army. He is best known for fighting in the Seminole Wars and the Mexican–American War. He also served as a general for the Union Army during the American Civil War.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Gabriel René Paul was born in St. Louis, Missouri, on March 22, 1813. His grandfather was René Auguste Chouteau, a famous person in St. Louis history.
In 1834, Paul graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point. He was 18th in his class of 36 cadets. This education prepared him for a long career in the military.
Fighting in Early Wars
After West Point, Paul became an officer in the 7th U.S. Infantry. He fought in the Seminole Wars, which were conflicts against the Seminole people in Florida.
Later, he served in the Mexican–American War. During this war, he was hurt at the Battle of Cerro Gordo. However, he got better and continued to fight. He even helped capture a Mexican flag during the attack on Chapultepec, a strong fortress near Mexico City.
Service in the Civil War
When the American Civil War began, Paul was a Major in the 8th Infantry Regiment. In December 1861, he became a Colonel and led the 4th New Mexico Volunteers. They were stationed at Fort Union National Monument in the New Mexico Territory.
Paul was later promoted to brigadier general. He led a group of soldiers called a brigade in the Battle of Chancellorsville. This was a major battle during the Civil War.
Wounded at Gettysburg
Paul's brigade was then moved to fight in the famous Battle of Gettysburg. On the first day of the battle, he was seriously wounded. He was hit in his left eye while defending an area called Oak Ridge.
His injuries were very severe. He became completely blind and had trouble hearing and smelling. Because of this, he could not fight anymore. He stayed on the Army's list for administrative duties until February 1865, when he officially retired.
Later Life and Burial
Gabriel René Paul died in Washington, D.C., on May 5, 1886. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery, a famous cemetery for military heroes. His grave is in Section 1, Lot 16.
