Hermann Lieb facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Hermann Lieb
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| Born | May 24, 1826 Ermatingen, Switzerland |
| Died | March 5, 1908 (aged 81) Chicago, Illinois, United States |
| Place of burial | |
| Allegiance |  United States of AmericaUnion |
| Service/ |
 Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861-1866 |
| Rank |  Colonel Brevet Brigadier General |
| Commands held | 9th Louisiana Infantry (African Descent) 5th U.S. Colored Heavy Artillery |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
| Other work | lawyer, editor, postal worker, author |
Hermann Lieb (also known as Herman Lieb) was an important figure during the American Civil War. He was born in Switzerland in 1826 and later moved to the United States. Lieb served as an officer in the Union Army, which fought to keep the country united. He is most famous for leading Union troops at the Battle of Milliken's Bend in 1863.
Contents
Early Life and Moving to America
Hermann Lieb was born in Switzerland on May 24, 1826. He received his education there and also in France. In 1856, he decided to move to the United States. He settled in a town called Decatur, Illinois. In Illinois, Lieb started his career as a lawyer.
Serving in the American Civil War
When the American Civil War began, Hermann Lieb joined the Union Army. He first signed up for 90 days as a private soldier. This was in Company B of the 8th Illinois Infantry regiment.
Becoming an Officer
In July 1861, his regiment was reorganized for a three-year term. Lieb was chosen by his fellow soldiers to be a captain. The next year, he was promoted again to the rank of major. He fought in several important battles. These included the Battle of Fort Donelson, the Battle of Shiloh, and the Siege of Corinth.
Leading at Milliken's Bend
On April 14, 1863, Lieb was given a new and very important role. He became a colonel and took command of the 9th Louisiana Regiment of African Descent. This unit was made up of African American soldiers. During the Vicksburg campaign, Colonel Lieb was in charge of the military post at Milliken's Bend. This post was located along the Mississippi River.
On June 7, 1863, a major battle took place at Milliken's Bend. Colonel Lieb led his troops to victory against Confederate forces. The Confederate troops were led by General Henry E. McCulloch. During the intense fighting, Colonel Lieb was wounded. This battle was significant because it showed the bravery and fighting ability of African American soldiers.
Later War Service
After the Battle of Milliken's Bend, Lieb's unit changed. On August 7, it became an artillery unit. It was later known as the 5th U.S. Colored Heavy Artillery. For the rest of 1863, Lieb and his regiment stayed in the Vicksburg area. They performed garrison duty, which means they guarded the area. On May 6, 1864, he was put in charge of all artillery forces at the Post of Vicksburg.
On March 13, 1865, Lieb received another promotion. He became a brevet brigadier general of U.S. Volunteers. A "brevet" rank is an honorary promotion for good service. He officially left the volunteer service on March 20, 1866.
Life After the War
After the Civil War ended, Hermann Lieb went back to Illinois. He worked in different jobs. He was a newspaper editor, helping to create news stories. He also worked for the postal service. In addition, he became an author, writing books and articles. Hermann Lieb passed away in 1908.
