American History

  1. Home
  2. Education
  3. American History

Benjamin Butler - Civil War General and Politician

By Martin Kelly, About.com

Birth of Benjamin Butler: November 5, 1818, Deerfield, New Hampshire
Death: January, 11, 1893, Washington, D.C.
Education: Graduated from Waterbury now Colby College, 1838.
Major Accomplishment:
  • Served as a Democrat to the Massachusetts state legislature beginning in 1853.
  • His political following gained him a an appointment as a General in the Union army at the outbreak of the Civil War.
  • He occupied New Orleans after its capture by Admiral Farragut, he was eventually dismissed for mismanagement.
  • Radical Republican in the House of Representatives from 1867-75, 1877-79.
  • He played a leading role in the impeachment of Andrew Johnson.
  • Elected Governor of Massachusetts in 1882.
  • Greenback Party Presidential Candidate in 1884.
Significance of Benjamin Butler:
  • A Civil War general that goes on to an extensive politcal career as a Radical Republican.
  • He was a leader in the impeachment of Johnson and later as a presidential candidate.

Explore American History

About.com Special Features

American History

  1. Home
  2. Education
  3. American History
  4. Civil War
  5. Generals and Soldiers
  6. Benjamin Butler - Civil War General and Politician

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.