John McArthur (November 17, 1826 – May 15, 1906) was a Scottish-born American soldier who served as a prominent Union general during the American Civil War. He is best known for his leadership in the Western Theater, where he commanded units in several pivotal campaigns.
Early Life and Career McArthur was born in Erskine, Scotland, and immigrated to the United States in 1849, settling in Chicago, Illinois. Prior to the outbreak of the Civil War, he operated an ironworks business and was active in the local militia, serving as the captain of the Chicago Highland Guards.
American Civil War Service Upon the commencement of hostilities in 1861, McArthur was appointed colonel of the 12th Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He was soon promoted to command a brigade under Brigadier General Ulysses S. Grant. McArthur participated in the capture of Fort Donelson in February 1862, and for his performance there, he was promoted to brigadier general of volunteers on March 21, 1862.
At the Battle of Shiloh in April 1862, McArthur commanded a brigade in W.H.L. Wallace’s division and was wounded during the fighting at the "Hornet's Nest." Following his recovery, he commanded a division during the Siege of Vicksburg in 1863.
His most significant tactical contribution occurred during the Battle of Nashville in December 1864. Commanding the 1st Division of the XVI Corps, McArthur executed a decisive flanking maneuver against the Confederate left wing. Without waiting for formal orders during a lull in the engagement, he launched a successful assault that broke the Confederate line, contributing significantly to the Union victory. For his services throughout the war, he received a brevet promotion to major general of volunteers.
Post-War Life After being mustered out of the army in 1865, McArthur returned to Chicago. He engaged in various business and civic pursuits, serving as the Commissioner of Public Works during the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 and later as the Postmaster of Chicago from 1873 to 1877. He died in Chicago on May 15, 1906.
