Thomas Jonathan Jackson was born on January 21, 1824. 2 years later, his 6-year-old sister died of typhoid fever. Shortly after, his father died of the same illness, leaving his mother to take care of her 4 children alone. A few years later, she married Blake Woodson. Thomas and his siblings were not liked by their stepfather and he was raised primarily by his uncle. Thomas Jackson went to West Point, the famous military school. His classmates teased him about his poor family. Despite this, Jackson did well, finishing 17th in a class of 59. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an Original Essay After graduating, a new life awaited him in front. He fought for the United States in the Mexican War. He was a lieutenant in the 1st American Artillery at the start of the war, but rose to the rank of brevet major. Returning to civilian life, he became a teacher. Jackson married Elinor Junkin, the daughter of a minister. Sadly, Elinor died in childbirth. In 1857 he married Mary Anne Morrison. Two years later he had a daughter. Unfortunately, she died within the first month of her life. In 1862 they had another baby girl whom they named Julia. But before that, Jackson made a big and unorthodox decision. Virginia seceded from the Union in 1861. Thomas Jackson, deciding to follow his state, supported the Confederacy. During the 1st Battle of Bull Run, also known as the 1st Battle of Manassas, a Confederate officer said that Jackson stood like a wall of stone! This is why Jackson was nicknamed “Stonewall” Jackson. 2 years later, a controversial incident killed the famous Stonewall Jackson. In 1863, Stonewall fell victim to friendly fire. This is quite strange because Jackson was popular with his men. He was shot twice in the left arm and once in the right hand. Doctors knew right away that they couldn't save the left arm. They amputated the arm. (Don't do this at home, kids!) After the amputation, Jackson did well. But on the fourth day, he developed pneumonia. On the eighth day, May 10, 1863, Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson closed his eyes for the last time. The death of Stonewall Jackson completely changed the Civil War for Virginia. Without him, Virginia could have been completely destroyed by the North early in the war. He changed his military tactics. But nothing can live forever except memories.