Harper's Encyclopedia of United States History
Benson Lossing, Ed.

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Hardee, William Joseph 1815-1873

Military officer; born in Savannah, Ga., Oct. 10, 1815; graduated at West Point in 1838, entering the dragoons; and in 1860 was lieutenant of the 1st Cavalry. In 1856 he published United States rifle and light Infantry tactics, being mainly a compilation from French sources. Resigning in January, 1861, he joined the Confederates, and in June was appointed brigadier-general in their army. For bravery in the battle of Shiloh (q. v.) lie was promoted to major-general, and in October, 1862, lieutenant-general. He was very active in military operations in Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Georgia; and after the defeat of the Confederates at Missionary Ridge, late in 1863, he succeeded Bragg in the chief command, until relieved by General Johnston. He commanded at Savannah and Charleston at the time of their capture, early in 1865; fought at Averasboro and Bentonville, N. C.; and surrendered with Johnston's army, April 27, 1865. He died in Wytheville, Va., Nov. 6, 1873.