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33 Facts About Burnside

Cristabel Mcbee

Written by Cristabel Mcbee

Modified & Updated: 10 Mar 2025

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Source: Mdpi.com

Burnside is a name that might ring a bell for history buffs, especially those interested in the American Civil War. But who exactly was Ambrose Burnside, and why does his name still pop up today? Ambrose Burnside was a Union Army general known for his distinctive facial hair, which eventually inspired the term "sideburns." Beyond his unique look, Burnside played significant roles in several key battles, including the Battle of Antietam and the Battle of Fredericksburg. Despite his mixed military record, his contributions to American history are undeniable. Curious about more intriguing details? Let’s dive into 33 fascinating facts about Burnside that will give you a deeper understanding of this historical figure.

Table of Contents
01Burnside's Early Life
02Military Career Before the Civil War
03Civil War Contributions
04Later Military Service
05Political Career and Later Life
06Legacy and Memorials
07Burnside's Legacy

Burnside's Early Life

Burnside, a name synonymous with American Civil War history, has a fascinating background. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about his early years.

  1. Ambrose Everett Burnside was born on May 23, 1824, in Liberty, Indiana. His parents were Edghill and Pamela Brown Burnside.

  2. Burnside's father was a South Carolina native who moved to Indiana. This move was significant as it shaped Burnside's upbringing in a free state.

  3. He attended Liberty Seminary as a young boy. This institution laid the foundation for his future military education.

  4. At 19, Burnside entered the United States Military Academy at West Point. He graduated in 1847, ranking 18th in a class of 38.

  5. Burnside's first military assignment was in the Mexican-American War. However, he saw limited action during this conflict.

Military Career Before the Civil War

Before becoming a Civil War general, Burnside had a varied military career. Here are some key points from this period.

  1. After the Mexican-American War, Burnside served in the western frontier. He was stationed in New Mexico, where he fought against Apache tribes.

  2. Burnside resigned from the army in 1853. He pursued a career in the railroad industry, working as a treasurer for the Illinois Central Railroad.

  3. He invented a breech-loading rifle, known as the Burnside carbine. This invention was adopted by the U.S. Army, but Burnside did not profit much from it.

  4. Burnside's business ventures included a failed attempt to manufacture his carbine. This failure led him back to military service.

Civil War Contributions

Burnside's role in the Civil War is perhaps what he is best known for. His contributions were significant, though not without controversy.

  1. At the outbreak of the Civil War, Burnside was appointed a colonel in the Rhode Island Militia. He quickly rose to the rank of brigadier general.

  2. Burnside led successful campaigns in North Carolina. His victories at Roanoke Island and New Bern boosted Union morale.

  3. He was promoted to major general after his successes in North Carolina. This promotion marked a high point in his military career.

  4. Burnside is often remembered for his role in the Battle of Antietam. He commanded the Union's left wing but faced criticism for his slow movements.

  5. Perhaps his most infamous moment came at the Battle of Fredericksburg. Burnside's frontal assaults resulted in heavy Union casualties and a decisive Confederate victory.

  6. After Fredericksburg, Burnside offered to resign. President Lincoln refused his resignation but reassigned him to a less critical command.

Later Military Service

Burnside continued to serve in various capacities after his Civil War setbacks. His later military service still holds interest.

  1. He commanded the Department of the Ohio. During this time, he dealt with Confederate raids and internal dissent.

  2. Burnside was involved in the Knoxville Campaign. His defense of Knoxville against Confederate forces was a notable success.

  3. He participated in the Overland Campaign under General Ulysses S. Grant. Burnside's IX Corps played a crucial role in several battles.

  4. Burnside's military career ended after the Battle of the Crater. His controversial tactics led to a disastrous outcome, and he was relieved of command.

Political Career and Later Life

After his military career, Burnside transitioned to politics and other pursuits. His later years were marked by public service and personal endeavors.

  1. Burnside served as the governor of Rhode Island from 1866 to 1869. His tenure focused on rebuilding and modernization efforts.

  2. He was elected as a U.S. Senator from Rhode Island in 1874. Burnside served in the Senate until his death in 1881.

  3. Burnside was a founding member of the National Rifle Association (NRA). His involvement helped shape the organization's early direction.

  4. He also served as the first president of the NRA. Burnside's leadership was instrumental in promoting marksmanship and firearm safety.

  5. Burnside's distinctive facial hair led to the term "sideburns." This unique style became a lasting part of his legacy.

  6. He was known for his amiable personality. Burnside's kindness and generosity earned him many friends and admirers.

  7. Burnside passed away on September 13, 1881, in Bristol, Rhode Island. His death marked the end of a varied and impactful life.

Legacy and Memorials

Burnside's legacy lives on through various memorials and historical references. His contributions to American history are remembered in several ways.

  1. Burnside's Bridge at Antietam National Battlefield is named in his honor. This site commemorates his role in the Battle of Antietam.

  2. The town of Burnside, Kentucky, is named after him. This town serves as a reminder of his influence and legacy.

  3. Burnside's home in Bristol, Rhode Island, is a historic site. The house is preserved as a testament to his life and career.

  4. A statue of Burnside stands in Burnside Park in Providence, Rhode Island. This statue honors his contributions to the state and nation.

  5. Burnside's papers and personal items are archived at the Rhode Island Historical Society. These documents provide valuable insights into his life and times.

  6. His military strategies and decisions are studied in military academies. Burnside's career offers lessons in leadership, both successful and flawed.

  7. Burnside's name is often mentioned in discussions of Civil War history. His impact on the war and American history remains a topic of interest and debate.

Burnside's Legacy

Burnside's contributions to history are undeniable. From his distinctive facial hair to his military strategies, he left a mark. His role in the Civil War, though controversial, showcased his dedication and resilience. Burnside's post-war career in politics and the railroad industry further cemented his place in American history.

Learning about figures like Burnside helps us understand the complexities of history. His successes and failures offer valuable lessons. Whether you're a history buff or just curious, Burnside's story is worth exploring.

Remember, history isn't just about dates and events. It's about the people who shaped our world. Burnside's life is a testament to the impact one person can have. So next time you hear the term "sideburns," think of Ambrose Burnside and his unique legacy.

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