What Really Killed Stonewall Jackson?

By J.D. Haines

Despite his eccentricities, Jackson was revered by most of his men and all Southerners. After his wounding at Chancellorsville, the entire Confederacy prayed for his recovery. His death was a tremendous blow to Lee, and the Confederacy never fully recovered. The outcome at Gettysburg, and perhaps the war itself, might well have been different had Jackson survived.

LIBRARY OF CONGRESS PRINTS AND
PHOTOGRAPHS DIVISION
Jackson gives orders during the Battle of First Manassas (known as First
Bull Run in the North). It was during this battle that he earned his
famous nickname, “Stonewall.”

“Friendly Fire”

On the night of May 2, 1863, Jackson sustained a severe gunshot wound in his left upper arm and a minor wound in his right hand from a volley of “friendly fire.” Supported by two of his aides, he left the battlefield and was then placed on a litter. However, one of the litter bearers was shot down, causing the general to be thrown heavily to the ground. Jackson was lifted back onto the litter and carried a few hundred yards to where Dr. McGuire waited with a field ambulance.

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LIBRARY OF CONGRESS PRINTS AND
PHOTOGRAPHS DIVISION
After leading one of the most successful flanking movements of the war
and inspiring a Confederate victory, Jackson is shot by his own men.
The North Carolinian troops mistook Jackson’s scouting party for Union cavalry
and let loose a volley as the general returned through the lines during the evening
of the battle of Chancellorsville. (Kurz & Allison painting.)

Kneeling to examine Jackson, the doctor said, “I hope you are not badly hurt, General.”

“I am badly injured,” Jackson replied. “I fear I am dying. I am glad you have come. I think the wound in my shoulder is still bleeding.”

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