James Nagle (general)

James Nagle (1822 – 1866) was a brigadier general in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He commanded a brigade and later a division in several key battles, including Antietam and Fredericksburg.

Early Life and Career:

Born in Reading, Pennsylvania, Nagle worked as a railroad contractor prior to the Civil War. He had a background in the militia, which proved valuable as the war approached.

Civil War Service:

At the outbreak of the war, Nagle raised and was appointed Colonel of the 6th Pennsylvania Infantry. He served in the Peninsula Campaign and the Maryland Campaign, distinguishing himself at the Battle of South Mountain. He was promoted to Brigadier General in September 1862.

Nagle's Brigade played a significant role at the Battle of Antietam, suffering heavy losses. He later commanded a division at the Battle of Fredericksburg. Due to illness, he resigned his commission in May 1863 but returned to service later in the war, commanding a depot in Pennsylvania.

Post-War Life and Death:

After the war, Nagle returned to civilian life. He died in Pottsville, Pennsylvania, in 1866.