James Ewell Brown (“J.E.B.”) Stuart, major general of the Confederate Army. This highly detailed 12-inch action figure includes uniform and accessories. From “Brotherhood of Arms,” the innovative military 12-inch action figure series featuring soldiers from the American Civil War. (Subject to change.)
Stuart’s wartime career was marked by spectacular exploits that made good news articles for Virginia newspapers. Stuart made a name for himself at the first Battle of Bull Run where his troopers swept down on retreating Union soldiers. He was promoted to brigadier general in September, 1861, and given a brigade of cavalry to command in the Army of Northern Virginia. During the Seven Days Battles near Richmond, Stuart and his command succeeded in riding all the way around the Union Army. His ride became the subject of many news stories and a song called “Riding A Raid”. In July, 1862, General Stuart became a major general and was assigned to command the cavalry force in Lee’s army.
When the spring of 1864 arrived, General Stuart found himself facing a new Union cavalry commander, General Philip H. Sheridan. Sheridan was ordered by General Grant to lead a raid upon Richmond while the Union army fought Lee’s army in the Battle of the Wilderness that May. On May 11, Stuart’s forces intercepted Sheridan at Yellow Tavern in front of Richmond and the gallant cavalier was mortally wounded. Taken to a hospital in Richmond, Jeb Stuart died the next day. He is buried in Hollywood Cemetery in Richmond. His passing marked a turn of fortunes for the Confederate cavalry of Lee’s army, and he is still admired today as one of the greatest cavalry commanders of the Civil War.
