J.E.B. Stuart

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James Ewell Brown Stuart Major General, CSA
Born	February 6, 1833
Died	May 12, 1864

James Ewell Brown "Jeb" Stuart was a cavalry officer in the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia. He was referred to by General Robert E. Lee as the "eyes and ears of the army." He served in many battles during the American Civil War and was mortally wounded at the battle of Yellow Tavern on May 11, 1864. Also a devout Christian and often gave the credit to his military victories to God.

U.S. Military Career

He served in the U.S. cavalry from 1854 to 1861, when the civil war broke out. After his graduation from West Point he served primarily in the wars against the native Americans. He was stationed in Fort Leavenworth when Kansas broke out in what is known as "bleeding Kansas." He was uninjured despite his involvement in the fights. Here he met for the first time John Brown, an abolitionist for blacks. Later on in 1859, under the command of Colonel Robert E. Lee, he participated in the battle of Harper's Ferry. He was able to signal the attack which led in John Brown's capture. When Virginia withdrew itself from the Union he resigned from the Union Army.

C.S. Military Career

He entered the cavalry of the Confederacy and was assigned to assist Colonel Thomas J. Jackson at Harper's Ferry. Stuart served at the first battle of Manasas and played an important role in defeating the Federal Army there. During the next months made massive raids on General John Pope's army and supplies. He participated in the raid on Chambersburg and the battle of Fredericksburg. His service was crucial to the Confederate victory of 3.1 Chancellorsville and led the Second Corps to victory after General Jackson was wounded. He did not participate as much in the battle of Gettysburg, but on the third day made a unsuccessful cavalry charge from the rear while Pickett's division made his brave charge. He continued to serve in various campaign's and battles until the battle of Yellow Tavern at which he was mortally wounded. He died the next on May 12 at the age of 31.