Henry Goddard Thomas facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Henry Goddard Thomas
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| Born | April 5, 1837 Portland, Maine |
| Died | January 23, 1897 (aged 59) Oklahoma City |
| Buried |
Evergreen Cemetery,
Portland, Maine |
| Allegiance | United States of America Union |
| Service/ |
Union Army United States Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1891 |
| Rank |  Brigadier General Brevet Major General |
| Unit | 5th Maine Infantry Regiment |
| Commands held | 2nd U.S. Colored Infantry Regiment 19th U.S. Colored Infantry Regiment 2nd Bde, 4th Div, IX Corps |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
| Relations | William W. Thomas Jr. (brother) |
| Signature |  |
Henry Goddard Thomas (born April 5, 1837 – died January 23, 1897) was an important general in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He played a key role in several battles and helped lead troops, including African American soldiers.
Contents
Who Was Henry Goddard Thomas?
Henry Goddard Thomas was a brave soldier and leader from Maine. He served in the United States Army for many years, starting as a private and rising to the rank of general. His military career was especially important during the American Civil War.
Growing Up and Starting Out
Henry Goddard Thomas was born in Portland, Maine. After finishing high school, he went to Amherst College. He graduated from college in 1858. Soon after, he became a lawyer, ready to start his career.
A Soldier in the Civil War
When the American Civil War began in 1861, Henry Goddard Thomas decided to join the army. He started as a private, which is the lowest rank, in the 5th Maine Volunteer Infantry Regiment. But he was a quick learner and a good leader.
In June 1861, he was promoted to captain. He fought in many important battles, including the First Battle of Bull Run and the Peninsula Campaign. These were some of the earliest and toughest fights of the war.
Leading African American Regiments
In 1863, Henry Goddard Thomas took on a very important role. He became a colonel, leading African American soldiers. First, he led the 2nd United States Colored Infantry. Later that year, he became the colonel of the 19th United States Colored Infantry. These regiments were made up of African American soldiers who fought for the Union. Leading them was a significant part of his service.
Becoming a General
Because of his bravery and leadership, President Abraham Lincoln promoted Henry Goddard Thomas to brigadier general in November 1864. This was a very high rank, showing how much the President trusted him. The United States Senate officially approved his promotion a few months later.
Life After the War
After the Civil War ended, General Thomas continued to serve in the United States Army. He stayed in the regular army until he retired in 1891. He was also given an honorary promotion to brevet major general for his excellent service during the war.
Henry Goddard Thomas passed away on January 23, 1897, in Oklahoma City. He was buried back home in Portland, Maine, at Evergreen Cemetery.
Family Connections
Henry Goddard Thomas had a brother named William W. Thomas, Jr.. William was also a well-known person who worked as a diplomat and politician.
