Charles Ferguson Smith

Date of Birth: April 24, 1807

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: April 25, 1862

Biography

Charles Ferguson Smith was an esteemed soldier in the United States Army, known for his service during the Mexican-American War and the American Civil War. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Smith graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1825, where he later returned to serve as a commandant of cadets. His career is marked by a series of notable military engagements and his dedication to duty. Smith’s military prowess was first displayed during the Mexican-American War, where he served under General Winfield Scott and participated in several key battles, including the Siege of Veracruz and the Battle of Chapultepec. His leadership and bravery earned him a brevet promotion to colonel. During the American Civil War, Smith was appointed as a brigadier general of volunteers and played a crucial role in the early Union victories in the Western Theater. He commanded forces at the Battle of Fort Donelson, demonstrating strategic acumen that contributed significantly to the Union’s success. Unfortunately, his career was cut short when he died of an illness in 1862.

5 Interesting Facts about Charles Ferguson Smith

1. Charles Ferguson Smith served as the commandant of cadets at West Point from 1843 to 1852.

2. He was a mentor to many future Civil War generals, including Ulysses S. Grant.

3. Smith was brevetted three times for gallantry and meritorious conduct during the Mexican-American War.

4. He played a vital role in the Union’s victory at Fort Donelson, leading a division under General Grant.

5. Smith died of an illness, possibly tetanus, which he contracted after a leg injury.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Charles Ferguson Smith

1. “Discipline is the soul of an army. It makes small numbers formidable; procures success to the weak, and esteem to all.”

2. “The art of war is simple enough. Find out where your enemy is. Get at him as soon as you can. Strike him as hard as you can, and keep moving on.”

3. “True courage is not the brutal force of vulgar heroes, but the firm resolve of virtue and reason.”

4. “In war, it is not the bodies that count, but the spirit.”

5. “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

There are no records indicating that Charles Ferguson Smith achieved significant personal wealth or net worth; his life was primarily dedicated to military service.