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Wickham Hoffman
Wickham Hoffman.png
Born (1821-04-02)April 2, 1821
New York, New York
Died May 21, 1900(1900-05-21) (aged 79)
Atlantic City, New Jersey
Resting place Arlington National Cemetery
Education Harvard College
Occupation Lawyer, diplomat, military officer
Spouse(s)
Elizabeth Baylies
(m. 1844)
Signature
Signature of Wickham Hoffman.png

Wickham Hoffman (born April 2, 1821 – died May 21, 1900) was an important American figure. He was a lawyer, a soldier in the Union Army during the American Civil War, and a diplomat who represented the United States in other countries.

Wickham Hoffman's Life Story

Early Years and Education

Wickham Hoffman was born in New York City on April 2, 1821. His father, Murray Hoffman, was a judge. Wickham went to Harvard College and finished his studies in 1841.

After college, he became a lawyer. He married Elizabeth Baylies on May 14, 1844. He worked as a lawyer until the American Civil War began.

Serving in the Civil War

When the Civil War started, Wickham Hoffman joined the military. He held several important roles. He helped the Governor of New York, Edwin D. Morgan. He also checked on New York troops at Fortress Monroe in Virginia.

Later, he became an Assistant Adjutant General. This role meant he helped manage military paperwork and orders. He worked with famous generals like Thomas Williams and William T. Sherman. He was also with Major General William B. Franklin during the Red River campaign. He served in the military until 1865.

A Career in Diplomacy

After his military service, Hoffman became a diplomat. A diplomat is someone who represents their country in other nations. He worked in several different countries:

  • Assistant Secretary of Legation in Paris, France, 1866
  • First Secretary of Legation in Paris, France, 1867–74
  • Secretary of Legation, London, England, 1874–77
  • Secretary of Legation, St. Petersburg, Russia, 1877-83
  • United States Minister to Denmark, 1883-85

While he was working in Paris, two big historical events happened: the Franco-Prussian War and the Paris Commune. These were times of great change and conflict in France.

Later Life and Legacy

Wickham Hoffman passed away on May 21, 1900, at his summer home in Atlantic City. He was buried with full military honors. His resting place is at Arlington National Cemetery, a special cemetery for military heroes.

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