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Benjamin Franklin CheathamGeneral of the Confederate Army
Country:
 USA |
Content:
Biography of Benjamin Franklin Cheatham
Benjamin Franklin Cheatham was born in 1820 in Tennessee. Prior to the Civil War, he was a non-professional soldier, engaged in agriculture and commanding the state militia. In May 1861, he entered the war, leading the Temporary Army of Tennessee. He commanded a division in the battles of Belmont and Shiloh, where he was wounded. He also participated in the Tullahoma Campaign and the Battle of Chickamauga. The Siege of Chattanooga took place without his involvement, but he was once again with the Army of Tennessee during the Battle of Atlanta.
Conflicts with General Bragg
Cheatham faced harsh criticism from General Bragg for missing the opportunity to destroy General John Schofield's army in the Battle of Spring Hill. In turn, Cheatham blamed Bragg for his own failures as a commander. The mutual accusations continued until Bragg voluntarily resigned from his position as army commander.
Post-War Life
Cheatham surrendered along with Joseph Johnston at Durham Station on April 26, 1865. After the war, he returned to his plantation but could not stay idle for long. He attempted to pursue a career in politics, unsuccessfully running for Congress. He ended his life in 1886 while serving as the Chief of the Post Office Department.
