This Month in History 4-13-19

Colonel John S. Mosby's Raid on Fairfax

Who is the first Confederate leader that comes to mind when one thinks of the American Civil War? Most likely, it is Robert E. Lee, James Longstreet, Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson, George Pickett, or Joseph E. Johnston. However, one of the most important Confederate leaders was Colonel John S. Mosby.

During the Civil War, Mosby led the 43rd Virginia Calvary in many successful raids behind the Union lines. The most notable of these raids occurred on March 8-9, 1863 in Fairfax County, Virginia. On this memorable night, Mosby led 29 men behind the Union lines and returned without one loss or injury.

During their daring raid, Mosby and his men captured 33 Union soldiers, with their weapons and equipment, and 58 horses. His successful raids behind enemy lines and quick disappearances earned Mosby the nickname: "The Gray Ghost."

Although Colonel John S. Mosby may not be a famous Confederate leader today, he certainly played a major role in the Confederate efforts during the American Civil War.

---

That's all for this month! If you have any possible topics for a future article, please contact me through FirstClass. -Emily

---

Sources:

"John Singleton Mosby." Battlefields, https://www.battlefields.org/learn/biographies/john-singleton-mosby

"The Memoirs of Colonel John S. Mosby" Pattonhq, http://www.pattonhq.com/militaryworks/mosby.html