John B. Hood

Date of Birth: June 1, 1831

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: August 30, 1879

Biography

John Bell Hood was a Confederate general during the American Civil War, renowned for his aggressive and bold command style. Born in Owingsville, Kentucky, Hood graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1853. He initially served in the U.S. Army, participating in conflicts such as the Second Seminole War and the Texas frontier skirmishes. When the Civil War broke out, Hood joined the Confederacy and quickly rose through the ranks due to his tactical prowess and leadership. Hood commanded the Texas Brigade and later held key positions in the Army of Northern Virginia under General Robert E. Lee. He played significant roles in major battles, including the Seven Days Battles, Second Bull Run, and Antietam. In 1863, he was transferred to the Western Theater, where he eventually took command of the Army of Tennessee. Despite his initial successes, Hood’s aggressive tactics led to significant losses, particularly during the Atlanta Campaign and the Franklin-Nashville Campaign. Post-war, Hood struggled with financial difficulties but eventually found success in the insurance business. He passed away in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1879.

5 Interesting Facts about John B. Hood

1. John B. Hood was severely wounded at the Battle of Gettysburg, resulting in the loss of the use of his left arm.

2. He lost his right leg at the Battle of Chickamauga, yet he returned to command within a few months.

3. Hood’s aggressive tactics were both praised for their boldness and criticized for their high casualty rates.

4. After the Civil War, Hood wrote a memoir titled “Advance and Retreat: Personal Experiences in the United States and Confederate States Armies.”

5. Hood had 11 children, including three sets of twins, with his wife, Anna Marie Hennen.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from John B. Hood

1. “I regard it as a great privilege to have been associated with such men, and to have commanded their devoted service.”

2. “The hardships we endured were great, but the spirit of the men never faltered.”

3. “The fate of my command was a subject of the deepest solicitude to me.”

4. “The soldiers of the South were not surpassed by the soldiers of any other country.”

5. “My duty and love for our cause impelled me to dare the utmost.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

John B. Hood faced financial difficulties after the war, and there is no record of significant wealth. His highest net worth was modest compared to modern standards.

Children

John B. Hood and his wife, Anna Marie Hennen, had 11 children. Tragically, several of them died in the yellow fever epidemic that claimed Hood’s life.