Thomas Baker (American general)

Thomas Baker (1832-1892) was an American general who served in the Union Army during the American Civil War.

Born in New York, Baker received an appointment to West Point, graduating in 1855. He served in the regular army before the outbreak of the Civil War.

At the start of the war, Baker entered the volunteer service. He rose quickly through the ranks, eventually becoming a brigadier general of volunteers in 1863. Baker distinguished himself in several major campaigns, including the Vicksburg Campaign and the Siege of Port Hudson. He was known for his bravery and leadership under fire.

After the war, Baker remained in the regular army, serving in various posts until his retirement. He was brevetted to the rank of major general for his wartime service. He died in 1892 and is buried in Arlington National Cemetery. While a capable officer, his Civil War commands were relatively modest compared to some other generals of his time, and he did not achieve significant fame or lasting historical recognition outside of specialized Civil War studies.