John Bell Hood
Early Life and Education
John Bell Hood was born on June 1, 1831, in Owingsville, Kentucky. He was the son of John W. Hood, a physician, and Theodosia French Hood. Hood's early education was typical of the time, focusing on classical studies. In 1849, he received an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he graduated in 1853, ranking 44th out of 52 cadets. His time at West Point was marked by a rebellious spirit and frequent disciplinary actions, but he developed a strong foundation in military tactics and engineering.
Military Career
Early Service
Upon graduation, Hood was commissioned as a brevet second lieutenant in the 4th U.S. Infantry. He was initially stationed at Fort Jones, California, where he participated in the Indian Wars against the native tribes. His early military career was characterized by his aggressive tactics and willingness to take risks, traits that would define his later service.
Civil War Service
With the outbreak of the American Civil War in 1861, Hood resigned from the U.S. Army and joined the Confederate States Army. He quickly rose through the ranks due to his leadership skills and battlefield prowess. Hood was initially assigned to the Texas Brigade, where he gained a reputation for his aggressive tactics and fearlessness in combat.
Peninsula Campaign and Antietam
Hood's brigade played a crucial role in the Peninsula Campaign of 1862, where his leadership was instrumental in the Confederate victories at the Battle of Gaines' Mill and the Second Battle of Bull Run. His performance at the Battle of Antietam further solidified his reputation as a fearless leader, despite suffering a severe wound that temporarily removed him from command.
Gettysburg and Chickamauga
Promoted to major general, Hood led his division in the Battle of Gettysburg, where he was again wounded, resulting in the loss of the use of his left arm. Despite his injuries, Hood's division was pivotal in the Battle of Chickamauga, where his aggressive tactics contributed to a significant Confederate victory. His leadership during these battles exemplified his willingness to engage in frontal assaults, often at great personal and unit risk.
Command of the Army of Tennessee
In 1864, Hood was promoted to full general and took command of the Army of Tennessee, replacing General Joseph E. Johnston. His appointment was controversial, as Hood was known for his aggressive tactics, which contrasted sharply with Johnston's more cautious approach. Hood's leadership during the Atlanta Campaign was marked by a series of bold but ultimately unsuccessful offensives against Union forces led by General William T. Sherman.
Franklin and Nashville
Hood's tenure as commander of the Army of Tennessee culminated in the Battle of Franklin and the Battle of Nashville. At Franklin, Hood ordered a frontal assault against fortified Union positions, resulting in heavy Confederate casualties. The subsequent defeat at Nashville effectively destroyed the Army of Tennessee as a fighting force, marking a significant turning point in the war.
Post-War Life
After the war, Hood moved to New Orleans, where he attempted to rebuild his life. He engaged in various business ventures, including insurance and cotton brokerage, but faced financial difficulties. Hood married Anna Marie Hennen in 1868, and the couple had eleven children, including three sets of twins. Tragically, Hood and his wife succumbed to a yellow fever epidemic in 1879, leaving their children orphaned.
Legacy
John Bell Hood remains a controversial figure in American military history. His aggressive tactics and willingness to engage in high-risk maneuvers have been both praised and criticized by historians. While his leadership contributed to several Confederate victories, his decisions at Franklin and Nashville are often cited as examples of the perils of over-aggression in military strategy. Hood's legacy is further complicated by his post-war writings, which sought to defend his actions and decisions during the war.