The Life Of John A Rawlins (Abridged Annotated)

John Rawlins was a prominent figure in the American Civil War, serving as Ulysses S. Grant's chief of staff from 1864 to 1865. His contributions to the Union victory were immense, yet his story remains relatively unknown. This abridged annotated biography aims to shed light on Rawlins' fascinating life, highlighting his unwavering loyalty, military prowess, and enduring legacy.

Early Life and Career

John Aaron Rawlins was born on February 13, 1831, in Galena, Illinois. His father, James Rawlins, was a prominent local attorney, while his mother, Mary Fell, was a strong advocate for education. John excelled academically, graduating from the Illinois College in 1850.

The Life of John A. Rawlins (Abridged, Annotated)

by Susan Treggiari

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1373 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	343 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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After studying law, Rawlins established a successful practice in Galena. He quickly gained a reputation for his incisive legal mind and compassionate nature. In 1856, he was elected as the prosecuting attorney for Jo Daviess County.

Civil War Service

When the Civil War broke out in 1861, Rawlins eagerly volunteered his services to the Union. He raised a volunteer company and was commissioned as a captain in the 45th Illinois Infantry Regiment.

Rawlins' military career soared under the tutelage of Ulysses S. Grant, whom he met at the Battle of Belmont in November 1861. Grant was impressed by Rawlins' intelligence, loyalty, and organizational skills.

In 1863, Grant appointed Rawlins as his assistant adjutant general. Rawlins proved to be an invaluable aide, managing Grant's correspondence, drafting orders, and implementing his strategies.

Chief of Staff

In 1864, Rawlins was promoted to chief of staff of the Army of the Potomac. In this pivotal role, he played a crucial part in planning and coordinating some of the war's most decisive battles, including the Battle of the Wilderness, the Battle of Spotsylvania Court House, and the Battle of Cold Harbor.

Rawlins' unwavering loyalty to Grant was legendary. He served as Grant's confidant, protecting him from political intrigue and shielding him from criticism.

Post-War Service

After the war, Rawlins continued to serve in the Union Army, eventually rising to the rank of brigadier general. In 1869, President Grant appointed him as Secretary of War.

As Secretary of War, Rawlins oversaw the reorganization of the army, established the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and worked to improve the conditions of Native American reservations. He also played a key role in suppressing the Ku Klux Klan.

Legacy

John Rawlins died in office on September 6, 1869, at the age of 38. His untimely death cut short a promising career and a life devoted to serving his country.

Rawlins' legacy lies in his unwavering loyalty, military acumen, and selfless dedication. He was a pivotal figure in Grant's military campaigns and a steadfast defender of the Union.

**Timeline of Key Events

• 1831: John Rawlins is born in Galena, Illinois.
• 1850: Graduates from the Illinois College.
• 1856: Elected prosecuting attorney for Jo Daviess County.
• 1861: Joins the Union Army as a captain in the 45th Illinois Infantry Regiment.
• 1863: Appointed assistant adjutant general to Ulysses S. Grant.
• 1864: Promoted to chief of staff of the Army of the Potomac.
• 1869: Appointed Secretary of War by President Grant.
• 1869: Dies in office at the age of 38.

**Annotated Bibliography

• McPherson, James M. (1990). Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era. Oxford University Press. This comprehensive history of the Civil War provides a detailed account of Rawlins' service under Grant.
• Rawlins, John A. (1864). Report on the Organization of Colored Troops. Government Printing Office. This official report by Rawlins highlights his efforts to integrate African American soldiers into the Union Army.
• Riddle, Albert G. (1869). Life of John Aaron Rawlins. H.K. Bowen. This posthumous biography provides a glimpse into Rawlins' personal life and political views.
• Smith, John E. (2001). Grant. Simon & Schuster. This authoritative biography of Ulysses S. Grant highlights Rawlins' pivotal role in Grant's military and political career.
• Wilson, James Harrison & Fiske, John (1900). Appleton's Cyclopedia of American Biography. D. Appleton and Company. This reference work contains a concise but informative entry on Rawlins' life and career.

**

John Rawlins was a multifaceted individual whose life was marked by unwavering loyalty, military brilliance, and humanitarianism. As Ulysses S. Grant's chief of staff, he played a crucial role in the Union victory during the Civil War. After the war, he continued to serve his country with distinction as Secretary of War.

Rawlins' legacy lives on as a testament to the power of loyalty, competence, and selfless dedication. His story is an inspiration to anyone who seeks to make a meaningful contribution to their community and country.

The Life of John A. Rawlins (Abridged, Annotated)

by Susan Treggiari

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1373 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	343 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE