Benjamin Franklin Cheatham (1820-1886) During the Civil War

Benjamin Franklin Cheatham Before the War:

In Nashville, Tennessee, on October 20, 1820, Benjamin Franklin Cheatham was born. He grew up as a farmer before entering the inter war and becoming an officer.

He was 5'8", weighing around two hundred pounds. His light blue eyes, light brown hair, fair complextion, and moustache gave me the impression of a strong and powerful leader.

There was little information given about Benjamin Franklin Cheatham's personal past, and we found it difficult to find enough information to suffice for this purpose.

Benjamin Franklin Cheatham’s Military Experiences

Before entering the Civil war, "he was a captain of volunteers in the Mexican War, and was distinguished on the severest battles" (CMHcheathambio 1). On May 9, 1861, at the age of 41, Cheatham was appointed major general in the provisional army of Tennessee. On July 9, 1861, Benjamin Franklin Cheatham was appointed brigadier-general in the provisional army of the Confederate States.

General Cheatham was an exceptional leader; leading his army in the victories of the many battles they faced.

How I Think the Civil War Affected Benjamin Franklin Cheatham:

I think the Civil War made Benjamin a stronger man, although he may have had some traumatic side effects, like most soldiers. He led his army on to many victorious battles of the Civil War, and that in itself, would make any man proud with a powerful mind.

My Conclusions on Benjamin Franklin Cheatham’s Involvement in the Civil War:

Benjamin Franklin Cheatham led his army to many of the great battle of the Civil War. Cheatham must have done something right with his soldiers, because he molded them into a great army. They fought at battles such as Chickamauga, Kenesaw Mountain, and Missionary Ridge. He was noted as such, "General Cheatham is squarely and firmly built, and is noted for his extraordinary physical strength." I assume the main reason he entered the war was because of his prior involvement in the other wars had made him an exceptional leader, and he may have felt he could do good for the army.

A Soldier's Life in the Cavalry:

In the beginning general Cheatham gained the reputation of being a very brilliant fighter. He well understood the art of managing men, he was very careful in looking after their comfort and when it was proper to do so he carefully guarded their safety. But when he was on duty he was ready to face any danger, and set an example of courage for his soldiers, and his soldiers followed his example with readiness and eagerness.

Tools of the Trade OR Life in the Saddle:

Benjamin Franklin Cheatham used like any other soldier he used guns, cannons and other weapons.

Bibliography of Sources:

http://www.civilwarhome.com/CMHcheathambio.htm and http://www.civilwarhome.com/cheathambio.htm

Special Appreciation and Thanks:

I thank my fellow classmates for helping me on the things I didn’t understand in this part of the project. I also want to thank Mr. Peterson for helping me on this project and giving me ideas on how to make my project better and also so I can get a good grade.