Sterling Price
- Born:
- September 20, 1809, Prince Edward County, Virginia
- Died:
- September 29, 1867, St. Louis, Missouri
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Lawyer, Politician, Soldier (Confederate General)
Early Life and Education
- Studied at Hampden-Sydney College.
- Read law and was admitted to the Virginia bar.
- Moved to Fayette, Missouri, in the early 1830s.
Career and Major Achievements
- Served in the Missouri State Legislature (1836-1838, 1840-1844), serving as Speaker of the House (1840-1844).
- U.S. Representative from Missouri (1845-1846).
- Governor of Missouri (1853-1857).
- Major General in the Missouri State Guard during the American Civil War.
- Commissioned as a Major General in the Confederate States Army.
- Led Confederate forces in several key battles in the Trans-Mississippi Theater, including the First and Second Battles of Lexington, and the Battle of Pea Ridge.
- Led Price's Raid into Missouri in 1864.
Notable Works
- His military career is documented in various historical accounts and analyses. For those interested in understanding the complex figure of Sterling Price, a survey of available resources indicates the existence of several works which would fall under the heading of 'general sterling price biography books'.
Legacy and Impact
Sterling Price's legacy is complex, marked by his significant political and military roles in Missouri during a turbulent period in American history. His service to the Confederacy ensured that in much of the northern United States he was seen as a traitorous figure, while in some parts of the south, he was still seen as a heroic defender.