Zebulon Howard: The Forgotten Hero of the Civil War
For many years, Zebulon Howard’s name has been overshadowed by that of his son-in-law, Ulysses S. Grant. However, as we delve into the life and times of this lesser-known hero, it becomes clear that Howard played a crucial role in shaping the course of American history. Zebulon Howard was born on September 22, 1823, in Ohio, to a family of modest means. Despite the economic hardships he faced, Howard’s parents encouraged his love of learning and supported his education. He went on to attend West Point, graduating in 1845 with honors. During the Mexican-American War, Howard served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. After the war, he returned to Ohio and began practicing law. In 1858, he married Jesse Augur’s sister, Anna, who would later become the wife of Grant. When the Civil War broke out, Howard found himself at odds with his son-in-law. He refused to take up arms against the South, citing his own experiences as a soldier in Mexico and his commitment to preserving the Union through peaceful means. This stance put him at odds with many in his community, including some of Grant’s closest allies. Despite facing opposition from both sides, Howard continued to speak out against secession and advocate for reconciliation. In 1861, he attended the Hampton Roads Peace Conference, where he met with Confederate officials to discuss possible terms for peace. Although the conference ultimately failed to yield any concrete results, it marked an important step towards finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Howard’s commitment to peacemaking did not go unnoticed. In 1864, President Abraham Lincoln appointed him as the head of the Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen, and Abandoned Lands. This agency was tasked with providing aid and support to former slaves in the South, and Howard played a key role in its establishment. Over the course of his career, Howard also worked tirelessly on behalf of Native American tribes, advocating for their rights and interests. He served as a delegate to several government agencies, including the Office of Indian Affairs, where he helped negotiate treaties with various tribes. One of Howard’s most notable achievements was the establishment of the Shawnee Indian Agency. This agency provided critical support to the Shawnee people, helping them adapt to life on reservations and providing assistance with education and economic development. Howard’s work in this area earned him widespread recognition and respect from Native American leaders. Throughout his life, Howard faced numerous challenges and obstacles. Despite these setbacks, he remained committed to his values of peace, reconciliation, and social justice. His legacy serves as a powerful reminder that even in the darkest of times, individuals can make a difference through their actions and advocacy. Today, Zebulon Howard’s story is largely forgotten, overshadowed by the more famous exploits of his son-in-law and other Civil War figures. However, as we explore the life and times of this remarkable man, it becomes clear that he played a vital role in shaping American history. His commitment to peace, reconciliation, and social justice continues to inspire us today.
Key Points:
1. Early Life and Education: Zebulon Howard was born in Ohio in 1823, attended West Point, and graduated with honors. 2. Civil War and the Hampton Roads Peace Conference: Despite his opposition to secession, Howard continued to speak out against violence and advocate for reconciliation during the Civil War. 3. Bureau of Refugees and Freedmen: Howard played a key role in establishing the Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen, and Abandoned Lands, providing aid and support to former slaves in the South. 4. Native American Advocacy: Howard worked tirelessly on behalf of Native American tribes, advocating for their rights and interests through various government agencies and treaties. 5. Shawnee Indian Agency: Howard’s work establishing the Shawnee Indian Agency provided critical support to the Shawnee people, helping them adapt to life on reservations.
Conclusion:
Zebulon Howard’s story serves as a powerful reminder that even in the darkest of times, individuals can make a difference through their actions and advocacy. His commitment to peace, reconciliation, and social justice continues to inspire us today. As we move forward in an increasingly divided world, it is essential that we learn from Howard’s example and continue to work towards creating a more just and equitable society for all.