John McArthur (general) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John McArthur
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| Born | November 17, 1826 Erskine, Scotland |
| Died | May 15, 1906 (aged 79) Chicago, Illinois |
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| Allegiance | United States Union |
| Service/ |
United States Army Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1865 |
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| Commands held | 12th Illinois Volunteer Infantry |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
| Signature | .png){kind=small} |
John McArthur (born November 17, 1826 – died May 15, 1906) was an important general for the Union Army during the American Civil War. He became one of the most skilled commanders in the western part of the United States during the war.
Contents
Early Life and Moving to America
John McArthur was born in Erskine, Scotland. He learned how to be a blacksmith, which is someone who works with metal. When he was 23, he moved to the United States and settled in Chicago, Illinois. In Chicago, he owned a company called Excelsior Iron Works. He also joined a local army group, or militia, called the Chicago Highland Guards.
Serving in the Civil War
When the Civil War began, John McArthur became a Colonel in the 12th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment. Soon after, he was put in charge of the 1st Brigade, a group of soldiers, in Brigadier General Charles F. Smith's division.
Fighting at Fort Donelson
McArthur's brigade fought in the Battle of Fort Donelson. His soldiers were moved to help another general's group, John Alexander McClernand's division. During a surprise attack by the Confederates, McArthur's brigade and a nearby group faced tough fighting. Even though they suffered losses, both brigades managed to pull back in an organized way.
Shiloh and Corinth Battles
After Fort Donelson, McArthur was promoted to brigadier general on March 21, 1862. He then led the 2nd Brigade, 2nd Division, of the Army of the Tennessee at the Battle of Shiloh. His brigade was known as the "Highland Brigade" because many of its members wore Scottish caps. McArthur was hurt while leading his soldiers to break free from the Confederate army surrounding them on the first day of Shiloh. He also led his brigade during the long attack on Corinth, Mississippi.
After the Union captured Corinth, McArthur took command of the 6th Division. He was ordered to help Major General William Rosecrans's army, which was also in Corinth. Before the Second Battle of Corinth, a higher-ranking general arrived and took over McArthur's division. For a short time, McArthur didn't have a specific command. However, he stayed nearby and even helped another colonel set up guard posts. Soon, a special order was sent out, putting McArthur back in charge of the 1st Brigade, 6th Division.
Vicksburg and Nashville Victories
After Corinth, McArthur returned to command the 6th Division, which was now part of the XVII Corps. He led this division during the Siege of Vicksburg, a very important battle. After the Confederates surrendered Vicksburg, McArthur was put in charge of the post there.
Later, he commanded the 1st Division of the XVI Corps. His division helped chase Sterling Price during his raid in Missouri. His troops were then moved to Tennessee. There, they played a big part in breaking the Confederate lines on the second day of the Battle of Nashville. For his brave actions in that battle, he received a special promotion to major general. He also led his division in the Battle of Fort Blakeley.
Life After the War
After the Civil War ended, John McArthur worked in several different jobs. He was the Commissioner of Chicago Public Works during the Great Chicago Fire. He also served as the Postmaster General of Chicago, which meant he was in charge of the city's mail. Later, he became the general manager of the Chicago and Vert Island Stone Company. In 1875, he was chosen to be a member of the American Philosophical Society, a famous group that promotes knowledge.
John McArthur passed away in Chicago on May 15, 1906. He was buried at Rosehill Cemetery.
