Early Life

Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain was born in 1828 in Maine. He grew up in a farming family but loved learning and books. He studied at Bowdoin College, where he became interested in languages and philosophy. After graduating, he became a professor and taught subjects such as rhetoric and modern languages. Though shy when young, he grew into a confident speaker and leader.

The Civil War

When the Civil War began in 1861, Chamberlain felt a duty to serve his country. He left his job as a professor and joined the Union Army. He quickly rose through the ranks because of his courage and leadership. By 1862, he was a colonel in the 20th Maine Volunteer Infantry Regiment.

The Battle of Gettysburg

Chamberlain is most famous for his role at the Battle of Gettysburg in July 1863. On the second day of the battle, his regiment defended Little Round Top, a hill that was the key to the Union line. Running out of ammunition, Chamberlain ordered a daring bayonet charge down the hill. His men pushed back the Confederate attackers, saving the Union position. Historians believe his actions helped change the course of the war.

Later War Service

Chamberlain continued to serve bravely. He was wounded several times, including a near-fatal injury in 1864. Despite his injuries, he returned to duty and was present at the surrender of General Robert E. Lee at Appomattox Court House in 1865. General Ulysses S. Grant chose Chamberlain to command the ceremony. Chamberlain ordered his men to salute the defeated Confederate soldiers, showing respect and a spirit of reconciliation.

Life After the War

After the war, Chamberlain returned to Maine and became the president of Bowdoin College. Later, he served four terms as governor of Maine. He also wrote about his experiences in the war, sharing the lessons of leadership, honor, and unity. Chamberlain lived until 1914, nearly 50 years after the war ended. He is remembered as a scholar, soldier, and statesman.

YouTube video from the National Portrait Gallery

Discussion Questions

1. Why was Chamberlain’s defense of Little Round Top so important to the Union Army?
2. What qualities made Chamberlain both a good teacher and a good military leader?
3. How did Chamberlain show respect to the defeated Confederate soldiers at Appomattox?
4. What can we learn from Chamberlain about leadership in difficult times?

Glossary

• Regiment – A unit of soldiers in the army.
• Bayonet – A blade that can be attached to the end of a rifle for close fighting.
• Surrender – To give up in a battle or war.
• Reconciliation – The act of making peace after conflict.
• Rhetoric – The art of public speaking and persuasion.

Five Interesting Facts

• Chamberlain taught himself to speak nine languages.
• He received the Medal of Honor for his bravery at Gettysburg.
• He survived being shot through the hips, a wound doctors thought was fatal.
• His salute at Appomattox is often remembered as a gesture of healing after the war.
• Chamberlain lived to be 85, one of the longest-living Union generals.

Timeline

• 1828 – Born in Maine.
• 1852 – Graduates from Bowdoin College.
• 1862 – Becomes colonel of the 20th Maine Regiment.
• 1863 – Leads defense of Little Round Top at Gettysburg.
• 1865 – Commands Union troops at Lee’s surrender at Appomattox.
• 1867–1871 – Serves as governor of Maine.
• 1914 – Dies at age 85.