Marmaduke–Walker duel facts for kids

The Marmaduke–Walker duel was a fight between two generals from the Confederate States Army, John S. Marmaduke and Lucius M. Walker. It happened on September 6, 1863, near Little Rock, Arkansas, during the American Civil War.

Tensions had grown between the two officers. This happened during the Battle of Helena on July 4, 1863. Marmaduke felt Walker did not support his troops. He also did not tell Walker about a Confederate retreat.

Why the Generals Fought

Later, Marmaduke was placed under Walker's command. This was during a Union army advance towards Little Rock. Walker again did not support Marmaduke during a retreat. This happened after the Battle of Brownsville. Marmaduke then questioned Walker's bravery after the Battle of Bayou Meto on August 27.

The two generals exchanged angry messages through friends. This led to a formal challenge, known as a duel.

The Duel and Its Outcome

During the duel, Walker was badly wounded. He later died from his injury. Marmaduke was arrested after the duel. However, he was soon released. He continued to serve in the war. After the war, he became Governor of Missouri. Union forces captured Little Rock later in the campaign. This happened after the Battle of Bayou Fourche.

What Happened Next

Marmaduke kept serving in the Confederate army. He was captured during the Battle of Mine Creek on October 25, 1864. While he was held by the Union army, he was promoted to major general.

After the war ended, Marmaduke worked in business and journalism. He was also a member of the Missouri Railway Commission. In 1884, Marmaduke was elected Governor of Missouri. He served as governor until he passed away in 1887. In 2015, a special plaque was placed where the duel happened. This plaque remembers the event.