When was Nathaniel Lyon born and who were his parents?
Nathaniel Lyon was born on the 14th of July 1818 to Amasa and Kezia Lyon. His father worked as a sawmill operator while also farming the land they owned.
Questions about Nathaniel Lyon
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What role did Nathaniel Lyon play in the California genocide?
In 1850 he co-led the Bloody Island Massacre of 60 to 200 Pomo people. Several days later Lyon was responsible for another massacre in Cokadjal that killed 75 to 100 Native Americans though the number was likely double that figure.
How did Nathaniel Lyon die during the American Civil War?
He was shot in the heart at about 9:30 am on August 10 during the Battle of Wilson's Creek. A bullet struck his head and another hit his leg before he returned to Union lines and led a countercharge of the 2nd Kansas Infantry on Bloody Hill.
Which dates mark key events in the life of Nathaniel Lyon?
Congress passed a resolution thanking the late Brigadier General Nathaniel Lyon on the 24th of December 1861. He received an appointment to West Point in early 1837 and died on the 10th of August 1861.
Why is Nathaniel Lyon famous in United States history?
Nathaniel Lyon was the first Union general to be killed in the American Civil War. Counties in Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, and Nevada are named in his honor along with two forts including Fort Lyon in Colorado.