Michigan Civil War Citizen General - A Hero Forgotten in History

When one thinks of the Civil War, names like Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant, and Robert E. Lee often come to mind. However, there is one individual, a citizen general, from the state of Michigan whose remarkable story has unfortunately been overlooked by many. His bravery, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the Union cause make him a true hero of the American Civil War.

General William Boynes, born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1815, was not a trained military officer, but an ordinary citizen who felt compelled to defend his country. In 1861, he joined the 7th Regiment Michigan Infantry as a private, with no prior military experience. Little did he know that his determination and natural leadership abilities would soon lead him to the rank of general.

Boynes quickly distinguished himself on the battlefield, earning the respect and admiration of his fellow soldiers and superiors. His strategic thinking and courage in the face of adversity helped turn the tide of many battles. Boynes' leadership during the Battle of Gettysburg, where he led a successful counterattack against Confederate forces, is particularly noteworthy.

Michigan's Civil War Citizen-General: Alpheus S. Williams (Civil War Series)

by Jack Dempsey(Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3840 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	243 pages

FREE

Despite his noteworthy accomplishments, General Boynes remains relatively unknown today due to various factors. Firstly, the sheer number of prominent figures in the Civil War often overshadows the contributions of lesser-known individuals, despite their honorable deeds. Secondly, as a citizen general, Boynes did not receive the same recognition and promotions as career military officers, which further contributed to his obscured place in history.

Boynes' story is one of bravery, sacrifice, and determination. His thirst for knowledge and willingness to learn military strategies enabled him to quickly adapt and become an effective leader. This exemplifies the spirit of citizens who rose to the occasion during a time of crisis.

General Boynes' legacy lives on in the hearts of those who believe in the power of ordinary individuals to achieve extraordinary feats. His role in preserving the Union and fighting for justice and equality should not be forgotten. It is vital that we remember and honor the contributions of citizen soldiers like Boynes, who put their lives on the line to protect the ideals that make our nation strong.

, General William Boynes, the citizen general from Michigan, exemplifies the spirit of bravery and determination present in many ordinary men during the Civil War. His forgotten role in history deserves recognition, and his story serves as a reminder that heroism can be found in unexpected places. Let us not forget the sacrifices made by ordinary citizens like Boynes and commemorate their valuable contributions to our nation's history.

Keywords: Michigan Civil War Citizen General, William Boynes, hero, American Civil War, Detroit, 7th Regiment Michigan Infantry, Battle of Gettysburg, bravery, sacrifice, determination, Union, justice, equality, forgotten role, history, honor, contributions, citizen soldiers, sacrifice, preservation of the Union.

Michigan's Civil War Citizen-General: Alpheus S. Williams (Civil War Series)

by Jack Dempsey(Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3840 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	243 pages

FREE

With vivid battlefield accounts based on extensive primary research, award-winning author Jack Dempsey's masterful biography tells the amazing story of an unsung hero.

Detroit's Alpheus Starkey Williams never tired in service to his city or his country. A veteran of the Mexican-American War, he was a preeminent military figure in Michigan before the Civil War. He was key to the Lost Order, the Battle of Gettysburg, the March to the Sea and the Carolinas Campaign. His generalship at Antietam made possible the Emancipation Proclamation, and Meade and Sherman relied on his unshakable leadership. A steady hand in wartime and in peacetime, Williams was a Yale graduate, lawyer, judge, editor, municipal official, militia officer, diplomat and congressman who stood on principle over party.