[Author’s Name]
[Institution’s Name]
Essay on What influence did John B. Hood have on the Civil War?
John B. Hood was born on 29 June 1831 at Owingsville, Kentucky. Born the son of a doctor in rural Kentucky, John Bell Hood learned the importance of political influence at the very start of his military career. His uncle, Richard French, was serving in the U. S. House of Representatives, and it was through him that young John secured a nomination to West Point. Adroitly working the intricate mesh of military and politics was a trait Hood would use time and again to advance his career.
His demerit record at West Point includes reprimands for appearance, inappropriate behavior, and disobedience. In spite of a poor academic record and a rebellious attitude Hood was well liked by his superior officers. Colonel Robert E. Lee, newly appointed Superintendent of the Academy, made hood a lieutenant of cadets, charged with enforcing stricter discipline. It was a move Lee would regret. Two months later Lee stripped Hood of this duty when he was "absent without authority." (O’Connor, 1949)Arriving in California in January 1854 he was assigned to Fort Jones in northern California. Hood was first stationed at Camp Mason, Texas. However, soon after his arrival he was called home on March 14, 1856 due to the illness of his father.
Dr. John Hood had suffered a stroke and was incapacitated. John Bell did not return to Camp Mason until December 1856. He would never see his father again for Dr. Hood died on November 30, 1857.On November 17, 1858 he was promoted to first lieutenant and assigned to command of Camp Colorado from June through August 1859. He transferred to command of Camp Alamo for September and October 1859, and finally commanded Camp Wood from December 31, 1859 until September 1860.....
