Joseph Knox Walker facts for kids
Joseph Knox Walker (born July 19, 1818 – died August 21, 1863) was an American politician and a leader in the Confederate Army. He lived during a very important time in American history.
Early Life and Education
Joseph Knox Walker was born on July 19, 1818, in a town called Columbia, Tennessee. His father was James Walker. Joseph was also related to a famous person: he was the nephew of James K. Polk, who became a President of the United States. He also had a brother named Lucius Marshall Walker.
Joseph went to college at Yale College and finished his studies there in 1838.
Political and Military Career
In March 1845, Joseph Knox Walker started working for his uncle, President Polk. He was the President's Private Secretary. This meant he helped the President with important papers and official tasks. He also signed documents related to land ownership.
Later, in 1858, Joseph became a politician himself. He was elected to be a member of the Tennessee Senate. A senator helps make laws for their state.
When the American Civil War began in 1861, Joseph joined the Confederate States Army. This war was a big conflict between the northern and southern states of America. Joseph became a high-ranking officer, a Colonel, leading the 2nd Tennessee Infantry Regiment.
During his time in the army, Joseph faced very tough conditions. He got sick from being out in the open camps near places like Columbus, Kentucky, and later near Corinth and Shiloh. Because he was so ill, he had to leave his military command.
A general from the Union Army (the northern army) allowed Joseph to go home to Memphis, Tennessee. He was given a "parole of honor," which meant he promised not to fight again while he was sick.
Later Life and Death
After returning home, Joseph's health continued to get worse. He passed away on August 21, 1863, at the home of his brother-in-law, Mr. Wm. S. Pickett. He was about 46 years old when he died.
This article incorporates public domain material from the Yale Obituary Record.
