Morgan Lewis Smith facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Morgan Lewis Smith
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| Born | March 8, 1822 Oswego County, New York |
| Died | December 29, 1874 (aged 52) Jersey City, New Jersey |
| Place of burial | |
| Allegiance | United States of America Union |
| Service/ |
United States Army Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1865 |
| Rank |  Brigadier General |
| Commands held | 8th Missouri Volunteer Infantry |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
Morgan Lewis Smith (March 8, 1822 – December 29, 1874) was an important Union general during the American Civil War. He was known for his bravery and strong leadership.
Contents
Early Life and the Civil War
Smith was born in Oswego County, New York. In 1843, he moved to Indiana. He had some military experience before the war began.
When the Civil War started, Smith helped create the 8th Missouri Volunteer Infantry. He was chosen as their Colonel in 1861.
Key Battles and Leadership
Colonel Smith led his soldiers in the capture of Fort Donelson. He also performed very well at the Battle of Shiloh. In these two battles, his unit had very few losses. This showed how strong his leadership was. Other commanders lost many soldiers, but Smith's troops stayed together.
In May 1862, Smith was moved to lead the 1st Brigade. This group was part of William T. Sherman's division. Smith's brigade played a big role in the siege of Corinth. They were at the front of the fight for Russell's House. They also led the attack on the double log house.
Becoming a General
On July 19, 1862, Smith was promoted to brigadier general. He continued to serve under General Sherman. This was during the important Vicksburg Campaign.
At the Battle of Chickasaw Bayou, General Smith was badly wounded. He did not fully recover until October 1863. After healing, he rejoined the Army of the Tennessee. This was before the battles around Chattanooga.
Later Campaigns and Injury
General Smith led his division in the Battle of Chattanooga. The next year, he also fought in the Atlanta Campaign. During the Battle of Atlanta, he briefly commanded the XV Corps. This happened after General James B. McPherson died.
Smith returned to lead his division at the battle of Ezra Church. But he soon had to leave active command. His old wound from Chickasaw Bluffs caused problems. After this, he was put in charge of Vicksburg. General Sherman once said that Smith was "one of the bravest men in action I ever knew."
After the War
After the Civil War ended, Morgan Lewis Smith worked as a U.S. Consul. He served in Honolulu, Hawaii, from 1866 to 1868.
He passed away in Jersey City, New Jersey, on December 29, 1874. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery. His brother, Giles Alexander Smith, was also a Union general.
