General Richard James "Uncle Dick" Oglesby A seated view CDV. Back marked Brady’s National Portrait Gallery, New York and Washington. He joined the 8th Illinois Infantry as colonel in 1861. Oglesby fought at Fort Donelson (1862), earning a promotion to brigadier general for gallantry. Wounded at Corinth (1862), he recovered to command a division in the XVI Corps during the Vicksburg Campaign (1863), contributing to Union victories. Promoted to major general in 1864, he led troops in the Atlanta Campaign and Sherman’s March to the Sea, playing a key role in logistics and combat. Resigning in 1865 due to health issues, Oglesby returned to politics, serving three terms as Illinois governor (1865–1869, 1873, 1885–1889) and as a U.S. senator (1873–1879). His military career was marked by bravery and leadership, though health challenges limited his later service. Oglesby’s post-war influence as a Republican leader and his nickname "Uncle Dick” reflected his popularity.