Col. Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain Quotes

A collection of quotes by Col. Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain.

Colonel Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain was a distinguished American soldier, academic, and politician. He was born on September 8, 1828, in Brewer, Maine. Chamberlain played a significant role in the American Civil War and is best known for his heroics at the Battle of Gettysburg in 1863.

At the outbreak of the Civil War, Chamberlain quickly volunteered to serve in the Union Army. He rose through the ranks and eventually commanded the 20th Maine Regiment. During the Battle of Gettysburg, his regiment was positioned at the vulnerable end of the Union line on Little Round Top. Facing repeated attacks, Chamberlain and his men valiantly defended their position, ultimately repelling the Confederate forces. His courageous leadership played a pivotal role in the Union victory.

Chamberlain's career continued after the war, and he was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions at Gettysburg. He later served as Governor of Maine and as the President of Bowdoin College. Chamberlain was also a devoted scholar of literature and language.

Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain's legacy extended beyond his military achievements. He was a proponent of civil rights and equality and fought for the rights of African American veterans. Chamberlain passed away on February 24, 1914, leaving behind a rich history and an enduring reputation as one of America's greatest heroes.

...On they come, with the old swinging route step and swaying battle flags. In the van, the proud Confederate ensign. Before us in proud humiliation stood the embodiment of manhood; men whom neither toils and sufferings, nor the fact of death could bend from their resolve; standing before us now, thin, worn, and famished, but erect, and with eyes looking level into ours, waking memories that bound us together as no other bond; was not such manhood to be welcomed back into a Union so tested and assured? On our part not a sound of trumpet more, nor roll of drum; not a cheer, nor word, nor whisper or vain-glorying, nor motion of man, but an awed stillness rather, and breath-holding, as if it were the passing of the dead!

Col. Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain

War