General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson remains one of the most gifted military commanders in world history. Born today in 1824, he served with distinction in the Mexican War before earning even greater glory during the Southern War for Independence. Despite attacks on his person by the ankle-biting bores of today, his brilliance will be recognized by any objective person.

The Youtuber Montemayor does an excellent job of detailing one of Jackson’s many feats, his brilliant 1862 Valley Campaign:

Even greater than his military prowess was the man’s unfailing piety.

“My religious beliefs teach me to feel as safe in battle as in bed. God has fixed the time of my death. I do not concern myself with that, but to be always ready whenever it may overtake me. That is the way all men should live, and all men would be equally brave.”

― Stonewall Jackson