John Aaron Rawlins, American general and politician, 29th United States Secretary of War (d. 1869)

John Aaron Rawlins: Grant's Steadfast Confidant and Civil War General

John Aaron Rawlins (February 13, 1831 – September 6, 1869) rose from humble beginnings to become a significant figure during the American Civil War and the subsequent Grant administration. Remembered primarily as the loyal and indispensable chief of staff to Ulysses S. Grant, Rawlins played a pivotal, though often uncredited, role in the Union victory and later served as Grant's Secretary of War. His life, marked by dedication and personal sacrifice, offers a fascinating glimpse into the challenges and opportunities of 19th-century America.

Early Life, Education, and Legal Career

Born into poverty in East Galena, Illinois, Rawlins was truly a self-made man. He overcame a difficult childhood characterized by an impoverished family, an absentee father prone to alcoholism, and a "scanty education" that provided little formal schooling. Despite these significant disadvantages, Rawlins possessed an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a formidable intellect. He dedicated himself to self-study, immersing himself in books and legal texts whenever possible. This rigorous self-education eventually led him to pursue a career in law. After diligently studying, Rawlins successfully passed the bar examination in 1854, a remarkable achievement for someone with his background. He then established a law practice in Galena, Illinois, a burgeoning lead-mining town that would soon become famous for its connection to Ulysses S. Grant.

At the outbreak of the Civil War, Rawlins was a staunch Douglas Democrat, aligning himself with Stephen A. Douglas's moderate stance on slavery and strong belief in preserving the Union. His exceptional oratorical skills were well-known, and he utilized them to great effect. He delivered a notable and passionate pro-Union speech at the commencement of hostilities, eloquently advocating for the preservation of the United States. This public display of patriotism and his intellectual prowess soon brought him into contact with Ulysses S. Grant, then a seemingly obscure Galena resident who had previously served in the U.S. Army.

Forging a Crucial Partnership: Rawlins and Grant

Ulysses S. Grant, a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and a veteran of the Mexican-American War with eleven years of prior military service, had recently returned to Galena after a period of struggles in civilian life. Rawlins, recognizing Grant's inherent military talent and experience, became a crucial catalyst in his return to military service. Rawlins not only persuaded Grant to drill and muster a local volunteer militia company but also played a key role in ensuring their swift induction into federal service by sending them to the state capital in Springfield. This initial step proved to be a turning point for Grant, who was soon recommissioned in the U.S. Army. Grant's initial assignment placed him under the command of Union General John C. Frémont, who commanded Union Army forces in the Western United States.

Rawlins soon followed Grant into the Union Army, beginning his own military career as a captain and assistant adjutant general, a crucial staff role. From this point forward, his career became inextricably linked to Grant's. Rawlins served primarily as an officer on Grant's staff, quickly rising through the ranks. His promotions—from captain to major to lieutenant colonel, colonel, brigadier general, and eventually to the honorary rank of brevet major general of volunteers—were directly tied to Grant's escalating success on the battlefields and his advancement within the Union Army under President Abraham Lincoln. Rawlins effectively served as Grant's chief of staff, managing his correspondence, issuing orders, and providing invaluable counsel.

Beyond his administrative duties, Rawlins was perhaps most renowned for his unwavering loyalty and his role as Grant's chief defender against persistent and damaging allegations of insobriety. Grant had a known history of drinking, and while its impact on his military performance is a subject of historical debate, Rawlins took it upon himself to protect his commander's reputation and ensure his sobriety, often through direct intervention and stern warnings. This vigilance was crucial in maintaining confidence in Grant within the high command and among the public, allowing him to lead the Union to victory.

Ailing Health and Post-War Service

Despite his vital contributions, Rawlins faced a relentless personal battle: he contracted tuberculosis in 1863, a devastating and often fatal disease in the 19th century. Despite his rapidly deteriorating health, Rawlins displayed extraordinary resilience and continued to serve on Grant's staff throughout the remainder of the war and into the challenging period of Reconstruction. His commitment to duty remained unbroken, even as the disease steadily consumed him.

Secretary of War and Final Days

Following Grant's decisive victory in the 1868 presidential election, he assumed the presidency in March 1869. One of his first and most significant appointments was naming his longtime confidant, John Aaron Rawlins, as his Secretary of War. This appointment was a testament to their deep bond and Rawlins's proven capabilities, even as his health continued to decline.

Rawlins's tenure as Secretary of War was brief, lasting only five months, and was marked by several controversial decisions:

• Brooklyn Bridge Approval: One notable action, less controversial, was his approval of the proposed height for the Brooklyn Bridge, then in its early planning stages. This decision was significant as it ensured that the massive structure would not impede naval traffic on the East River, reflecting the strategic importance of waterways to national defense, which fell under the purview of the War Department.
• Support for Cuban Insurrection: Rawlins strongly advocated for supporting the Cuban independence movement against Spanish colonial rule. This stance, taken during Cuba's Ten Years' War (1868-1878), reflected a growing American sympathy for self-determination and a desire to challenge European colonial powers in the Western Hemisphere. His support, however, was not universally shared within the Grant administration.
• Anti-Mormon Policy: He established a firm anti-Mormon policy for the Utah Territory, where the practice of polygamy by members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was seen by the federal government as a challenge to national laws and morality. This policy aimed to assert federal authority and enforce American legal standards in the territory.
• Reduction of Sherman's Authority: Rawlins also controversially moved to reduce the authority of General William Tecumseh Sherman, who had succeeded Grant as the commanding general of the Army. This decision, which sought to concentrate more power within the Secretary of War's office, created significant friction between Rawlins and Sherman, two of the Union's most prominent figures.

Sadly, Rawlins's tuberculosis continued to worsen rapidly during his time in office. He passed away on September 6, 1869, just five months into his term, at the age of 38. His death not only cut short a promising political career but also ended strong cabinet-level support for an independent Cuba within the U.S. government. Cuban independence would not become a top priority for the United States until the Spanish-American War nearly three decades later in 1898.

Legacy and Historical Obscurity

Despite his integral role in the Civil War and the early years of the Grant administration, John Aaron Rawlins's short life and significant contributions remain largely underappreciated by history. Aside from a 1916 biography, The Life of John A. Rawlins, by James Harrison Wilson, his story is not widely known.

Curiously, Ulysses S. Grant himself rarely mentioned Rawlins in his widely popular Personal Memoirs, published in 1885. This omission has been a subject of historical speculation, with some suggesting that Grant might have deliberately downplayed Rawlins's influence, perhaps to protect his own reputation concerning the allegations of insobriety that Rawlins had so fiercely combated. Regardless of the reasons, the historical neglect of Rawlins is striking, especially considering his profound impact on one of America's most celebrated generals and pivotal historical periods.

Frequently Asked Questions about John Aaron Rawlins

Who was John Aaron Rawlins?

John Aaron Rawlins was a general officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War, best known as Ulysses S. Grant's chief of staff and confidant. He later served as Secretary of War in the Grant administration.

What was Rawlins's relationship with Ulysses S. Grant?

Rawlins was Grant's most trusted advisor and chief of staff throughout the Civil War. He managed Grant's headquarters, drafted orders, and was a staunch defender of Grant against allegations of alcoholism, often personally ensuring his sobriety.

How did Rawlins contribute to the Union war effort?

Rawlins's contributions were primarily through his organizational skills and steadfast support of Grant. He ensured the efficient functioning of Grant's staff, maintaining clear communication and command structure across various campaigns. His loyalty and administrative acumen were crucial to Grant's success on battlefields like Vicksburg and in the Overland Campaign.

What significant roles did Rawlins hold after the Civil War?

After the war, Rawlins continued to serve on Grant's staff during Reconstruction. When Grant became President in 1869, he appointed Rawlins as his Secretary of War, a position he held until his death.

What were some of Rawlins's controversial decisions as Secretary of War?

During his brief tenure, Rawlins supported the Cuban insurrection against Spanish rule, implemented an anti-Mormon policy in the Utah Territory, and sought to reduce the authority of General William Tecumseh Sherman, who was then the commanding general of the U.S. Army.

How did John Aaron Rawlins die?

John Aaron Rawlins died on September 6, 1869, from tuberculosis, a disease he had contracted in 1863. His health had been in decline for several years, and the demands of his office exacerbated his condition.

Why is John Aaron Rawlins not more widely known?

Despite his critical role, Rawlins's life and contributions have been largely overshadowed by more prominent figures. His early death, coupled with Ulysses S. Grant's infrequent mentions of him in his popular memoirs, contributed to his relative historical obscurity.