Скачать или смотреть Rufus Ingalls, The Forgotten General Who Fed The Union Army

Rufus Ingalls, a distinguished figure in American military history, played a pivotal role during the Civil War as a master of logistics and supply. Born on August 23, 1818, in Denmark, Maine, Ingalls grew up in a family with strong political and social connections. His father, Cyrus Ingalls, was a prominent mill owner and a delegate to Maine's constitutional convention. These connections helped Rufus secure an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he graduated in 1843 alongside notable figures such as Ulysses S. Grant.

Ingalls began his military career on the western frontier, serving with the First U.S. Dragoons. He later participated in the Mexican-American War, where he distinguished himself in battles such as the skirmish at Eabudo and the conflict at Pueblo de Taos. Following the war, he transitioned to the role of quartermaster, a position that would define his career. His expertise in logistics and supply management became evident during his assignments in the Oregon Territory and at Fort Vancouver.

With the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861, Ingalls was called to serve in a critical capacity. He initially worked to reinforce Fort Pickens in Florida and later became an aide-de-camp to Major General George B. McClellan. Ingalls' logistical acumen was instrumental during the Peninsula Campaign, where he established efficient supply depots and ensured the Army of the Potomac was well-provisioned. His ability to manage complex supply chains earned him the position of Chief Quartermaster of the Army of the Potomac in 1862.

Throughout the war, Ingalls' contributions were vital to the Union's success. He played a key role in supplying troops during major campaigns, including Antietam, Gettysburg, and the Siege of Petersburg. His efforts were praised by General Ulysses S. Grant, who noted that the Army of the Potomac's logistics under Ingalls' leadership were unparalleled. Ingalls' work ensured that Union forces remained well-equipped, even in the face of logistical challenges.

After the war, Ingalls continued to serve in the U.S. Army, eventually rising to the rank of Quartermaster General in 1882. He retired in 1883 after four decades of service. Ingalls spent his later years in Oregon and New York City, where he passed away on January 15, 1893. He was buried with honors at Arlington National Cemetery.
00:00 Introduction
02:23 Who was Rufus Ingalls?
04:59 More Problems to Overcome
06:34 Reaching Antietam