Thomas Jonathan Jackson was born into humble circumstances and great promise. Working his way through his West Point appointment, Jackson was no great scholar, only a determined and hard working student. Jackson served as an instructor at Virginia Military Institute after service in the Mexican War and when Virginia seceded from the Union commanded Virginia troops. On July 21, 1861, Confederate and Federal troops collided at Manassas Junction,Virginia. Federal forces were pressing their attack successfully, pushing troops under General Bernard Bee were pushed back up Henry House Hill by Federals and the Confederate lines began to collapse. Then Jackson arrived n the field and took up a position on the hill. Bee saw Jackson holding the high ground and said to his demoralized men, “Look, there stands Jackson like a stone wall. Rally to the Virginians !” And rally they did. The re-strengthened Confederates then attacked. At the same time, additional forces under General Johnston arrived by train and the reenforced Rebels began a push that broke the Federal lines and spirit and led to a chaotic retreat back to safety in Washington.

Thus began a legend. Jackson became Lee’s master strategist and right arm. Lee could entrust a mission to Jackson with only light instructions and Stonewall would move quickly, decisively and victoriously. Jackson was secretive but successful. Lee placed the highest confidence in him and was never disappointed. All Americans can learn from his diligence, bravery and persistence.