Braxton Bragg

Braxton Bragg was an American professional soldier renowned for his courage. He was born in Warrenton on March 22, 1817, in a family of six.  Bragg’s father, a successful carpenter, resorted to sending him to the United States Military Academy when he was ten years old. Six years later, his father succeeded in his quest, and Bragg received his appointment to the academy at age 16 (Hess, 2016). He graduated fifth in 1837’s cadet class and was commissioned a second lieutenant. Bragg first served in Florida during the Second Seminole War and later served in several other locations. Bragg married Eliza Brooks in 1849. He resigned from the military and turned into farming in 1856 when he and his wife bought a sugar plantation in Louisian (American Battlefield Trust, 2020). In 1861 he was appointed as a brigadier during the civil war.  His classmates were prominent Civil War generals. Bragg served in several high ranks in the American military and participated in notable events in American history. He made significant contributions during the Mexican and Seminole Wars and also participated in the Civil War.

Essentially Bragg served in many military high-rank positions in the Army of the Confederate States. He served in Seminole Wars when he commanded Fort Marion. During his reign, he displayed a fondness for strict discipline. During his service at the Mexican war, he became a hero and won promotions due to his bravery. He received accolade due to his artillery’s timely arrival at the Battle of Buena Vista that assisted Americans in deterring the numerically superior Mexican force (Hess, 2016). This was an essential achievement in American history.  As a major general in the Confederate Army, Bragg commanded officers at Shiloh and was promoted to a full general’s rank upon General Albert’s demise. He later succeeded General Beauregard in command of the Tennessee army when he led a bold advance of Kentucky in August 1862, which earned him the admiration of the future United States secretary of war.  He conquered Buell’s forces at the Battle of Perryville, but his latter pursuits in the Battle of Stones River were unsuccessful.  His tenure had mixed achievements.

Bragg was deemed the most controversial officer despite his successful career due to his combative nature, short temper, and demanding attention to military meticulousness (Hess, 2016). His character made it difficult for him to work well with other officers. However, his professional reputation was admirable.  Bragg’s strict disciplinarian actions earned him a positive reputation. He was also renowned for his intense training and drill of his men made them have top-notch skills.