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| Gen. P.G.T. Beauregard, hero of Fort Sumter. (Blog author's collection) |
The Richmond Daily Dispatch
May 16, 1861
Gen. P. G. Toutant Beauregard, the Commander-in-Chief at Charleston, was born on his father's plantation, near New Orleans. He is a descendant of the most aristocratic Southern families. His father was a wealthy and influential Louisiana planter. His mother was of Italian origin, and descended from the ducal Reggio family of Italy. Gen. Beauregard entered the United States Military Academy at West Point, at an early age, where he graduated in 1838, taking the second honors in a class of forty-five graduates, and was appointed to the corps of engineers. He was promoted to a First Lieutena ncy in June, 1840, and in that capacity served with great distinction during the Mexican war. He was twice brevetted "for gallant and meritorious conduct" in the field, the first time as Captain for the battles of Contreras and Churubusco, to date from August 20, 1847; and again as Major for the battle of Chepultepec, to date from the 13th of September of that year. Gen. Beauregard is about forty-three years of age, in prime of life and vigorous health, erect as a soldier, well made and remarkably active. There is great spirit and determination in his look, and he evidently possesses great muscular power. The great characteristic of the General is perfect method in all his plans. He is regarded one of the ablest officers that ever was in the American army.
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