Lieutenant General John Bell Hood was a Confederate commander during the American Civil War (1861-1865). A native of Kentucky, he elected to represent his adopted state of Texas in the Confederate Army and quickly earned a reputation as an aggressive and fearless leader. Hood served in the east until late 1863 and took part in the Army of Northern Virginia's campaigns, including Gettysburg. Transferred west, he played a central role at the Battle of Chickamauga and later commanded the Army of Tennessee in its defense of Atlanta. In late 1864, Hood's army was effectively destroyed at the Battle of Nashville.
Early Life & Career
John Bell Hood was born either June 1 or 29, 1831, to Dr. John W. Hood and Theodosia French Hood at Owingsville, KY. Though his father did not wish a military career for his son, Hood was inspired by his grandfather, Lucas Hood, who, in 1794, had fought with Major General Anthony Wayne at the Battle of Fallen Timbers during the Northwest Indian War (1785-1795). Obtaining an appointment to West Point from his uncle, Representative Richard French, he entered school in 1849.
