As my year of studying the Civil War draws to a close, I wanted to share my thoughts on my favorite figure: Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain. My first encounter with Chamberlain was through a reference in Ken Burns’ PBS documentary series. Although not a primary figure, his contributions and background immediately appealed to me. He was lightly referenced in Shelby Foote’s masterpiece, which further piqued my interest, especially as he continued to appear in the Eastern Theater.
In a previous post, I discussed Jeff and Michael Shaara’s historical fiction, where Chamberlain is portrayed on a more intimate level. This led me to read his memoir, Bayonet Forward, and Ronald White’s biography, On Great Fields. Through these works, I discovered a man I could somewhat identify with—at times a romantic, driven for success, and interested in a wide variety of topics by no means was he a professional soldier like others.
Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain was born on September 8, 1828, in Brewer, Maine, into a family deeply rooted in military service. As the eldest of five children, he grew up with the stories and legacies of his great-grandfather, who fought in the Revolutionary War; his grandfather, a veteran of the War of 1812; and his father, who served in the Maine militia. These familial influences instilled in him a sense of duty that would later shape his extraordinary life.
Chamberlain attended Bowdoin College, where he graduated in 1852, before pursuing further studies at Bangor Theological Seminary. Returning to Bowdoin as a professor, he taught rhetoric and modern languages and demonstrated a profound intellectual curiosity. Fluent in nine languages and a skilled musician, Chamberlain seemed destined for a life dedicated to academia. However, the outbreak of the Civil War would irrevocably alter his path.
Despite his promising academic career, Chamberlain felt compelled to serve. In 1862, he wrote to Maine’s governor expressing his desire to join the Union Army, stating, “I fear, this war, so costly of blood and treasure, will not cease until men of the North are willing to leave good positions and sacrifice the dearest personal interests to rescue our country from desolation.” Shortly thereafter, he enlisted as lieutenant colonel of the 20th Maine Volunteer Infantry Regiment.
Chamberlain’s first major combat experience came at the Battle of Fredericksburg in December 1862, where the Union suffered devastating losses. The hardships endured by his regiment tested his leadership and resolve. These early battles would forge the character and determination for which he became renowned. Chamberlain’s regiment, the 20th Maine, was part of the futile attacks. He described the scene vividly:
“The field before us was a terrible sight. The dead and wounded lay thick, and the ground was soaked with blood. We advanced under a hail of bullets, and it seemed as if the very air was alive with death. Yet, we pressed on, driven by duty and the hope that our sacrifice might turn the tide of battle.”
Despite the heavy losses, Chamberlain’s leadership and resolve were evident. This baptism by fire forged the character and determination that would define his military career.
His defining moment arrived on July 2, 1863, at the Battle of Gettysburg. Stationed at Little Round Top, Chamberlain and the 20th Maine were tasked with defending the extreme left of the Union line—a position critical to preventing a Confederate breakthrough. As waves of Confederate soldiers advanced and ammunition dwindled, Chamberlain made a fateful decision. He ordered his men to fix bayonets and led a desperate charge downhill, catching the enemy off guard and forcing their retreat. This courageous maneuver not only secured Little Round Top but played a pivotal role in the Union’s victory at Gettysburg. For his valor, Chamberlain was later awarded the Medal of Honor.
“We were nearly out of ammunition, and the enemy was preparing for another assault. I knew we couldn’t hold out much longer. I ordered my men to fix bayonets and prepare to charge. As we swept down the hill, the Confederates were taken by surprise. The charge was a success, and we drove them back, securing our position and, ultimately, the Union line.”
Reflecting on such moments, Chamberlain later wrote in his memoir:
“In great deeds, something abides. On great fields, something stays. Forms change and pass; bodies disappear; but spirits linger, to consecrate ground for the vision-place of souls.”
Chamberlain’s service extended well beyond Gettysburg. He fought in major battles, including the Siege of Petersburg and the Battle of Five Forks. At Petersburg in June 1864, he was grievously wounded when a bullet passed through his hip and groin. The injury was so severe that he was given a deathbed promotion to brigadier general. Remarkably, Chamberlain defied all odds, surviving the wound and returning to lead his men in battle.
“The pain was excruciating, and I feared I would not survive. Yet, in those moments, I found a strength I did not know I possessed. The inspiration of a noble cause enables men to do things they did not dream themselves capable of before.”
He later reflected on the resilience demanded by war:
“The inspiration of a noble cause enables men to do things they did not dream themselves capable of before.”
Chamberlain also played a significant role in the Battle of Five Forks in April 1865. This battle was crucial in breaking the Confederate lines and leading to the fall of Petersburg and Richmond. Chamberlain described the intensity of the fight:
“The battle was fierce and chaotic. We fought through dense woods and over rough terrain. The enemy was determined, but so were we. As we pressed forward, I could see the resolve in my men’s eyes. They fought with a tenacity that was truly inspiring. When the enemy finally broke, it was a moment of triumph and relief.”
After the war, Chamberlain returned to Maine, where his leadership and dedication to public service remained unwavering. He served four terms as Maine’s governor, from 1867 to 1871, during which he championed veterans’ rights, education, and economic development. In 1871, he became president of Bowdoin College, modernizing its curriculum and expanding its facilities. Chamberlain’s commitment to education was as steadfast as his devotion to his country.
Chamberlain also wrote extensively about his experiences, leaving behind reflections that continue to resonate. He believed deeply in the power of noble actions to inspire future generations, writing:
“The power of noble deeds is to be preserved and passed on to the future.”
Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain passed away on February 24, 1914, at the age of 85. He left behind a legacy of courage, intellect, and service. From the battlefield at Little Round Top to the halls of government and academia, Chamberlain exemplified the virtues of sacrifice and perseverance. His words continue to inspire:
“We know not of the future, and cannot plan for it much. But we can hold our spirits and our bodies so pure and high, we may cherish such thoughts and ideals, and dream such dreams of lofty purpose, that we can determine and know what manner of men we will be whenever and wherever the hour strikes that calls to noble action.”
Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain remains a testament to the profound impact one individual can have when guided by principle and dedication to a greater cause. His life story is a powerful reminder of the enduring value of courage, intellect, and unwavering commitment to one’s ideals.
Written by Michael McPhail
Brains and Brawn 