Jubal Early

Jubal Anderson Early (November 3, 1816 – March 3, 1894) was a prominent Confederate general during the American Civil War and one of Robert E. Lee's most capable and trusted lieutenants. Born in Virginia, Early graduated from West Point and initially served in the Mexican-American War before returning to civilian law practice. When the Civil War erupted, he joined the Confederate cause, rising through the ranks to become a corps commander. Early is particularly remembered for his bold Valley Campaign of 1864 and his daring raid on Washington, D.C., during which Confederate forces briefly threatened the Union capital. Known for his tactical aggressiveness and fiery temperament, Early never wavered in his convictions, even after the Confederacy's defeat. He spent his postwar years writing memoirs and defending Confederate actions, becoming a controversial figure in Lost Cause historiography. Early's military reputation remains significant despite the controversial nature of the cause he served.