John Hunt Morgan

Date of Birth: June 1, 1825

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: September 4, 1864

Biography

John Hunt Morgan was a Confederate general and cavalry officer during the American Civil War. Born in Huntsville, Alabama, Morgan moved to Kentucky with his family and later became well-known for his daring and disruptive cavalry raids behind Union lines. He first served in the Mexican-American War and later became a prominent businessman before the Civil War. Morgan’s raids, most notably the “Great Raid” into Indiana and Ohio in 1863, earned him a reputation as a bold and audacious leader. His tactics, which involved high-speed movements and surprise attacks, were designed to undermine Union supply lines and communication. Despite his initial success, Morgan was eventually captured but later escaped from prison. He continued to serve the Confederacy until his death in 1864.

5 Interesting Facts about John Hunt Morgan

1. Morgan’s Raiders were known for their mobility and ability to cover large distances rapidly, often outpacing Union forces.

2. He was captured in July 1863 but managed to escape from the Ohio State Penitentiary in November of the same year.

3. Morgan’s “Great Raid” is considered one of the most famous cavalry operations of the Civil War.

4. He was killed in Greeneville, Tennessee, during a surprise attack by Union forces.

5. Morgan’s tactics and raids are still studied in military academies for their innovative use of cavalry.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from John Hunt Morgan

1. “Our only fear is that we may be too late.”

2. “We must strike quickly and with determination.”

3. “A rapid movement, combined with a sudden and unexpected attack, is the key to victory.”

4. “Cavalry is the eyes and ears of the army.”

5. “We fight not for conquest, but for our homes and our rights.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

John Hunt Morgan’s highest net worth is difficult to estimate accurately due to the lack of detailed financial records from that era. However, he was considered to be quite wealthy, largely due to his successful pre-war business endeavors.

Children

John Hunt Morgan had no surviving children. He was married twice, first to Rebecca Gratz Bruce, who died in 1861, and then to Martha Ready in 1862. Unfortunately, neither marriage produced heirs that survived into adulthood.