Reference

Edward Porter Alexander was a prominent figure in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. Born on May 26, 1835, in Washington, Georgia, Alexander graduated third in his class from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1857. He served as a military engineer, railroad executive, planter, and author.

Alexander's role in the Confederate Army was multifaceted. He initially served as a captain of engineers and was responsible for establishing the Confederate Signal Corps. He played a crucial role in the First Battle of Bull Run, using his signaling system to alert the Rebel line of the Union Army's approach.

Throughout the war, Alexander held various positions, including Chief of Ordnance and Signals for the Army of Northern Virginia. He was known for his innovative use of balloons for reconnaissance and signaling, earning him the nickname "The Father of Confederate Ballooning" (Source: Civil War Signals).

Alexander's military career was marked by his bravery and tactical genius. He participated in several key battles, including the Seven Days Battles, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, and Petersburg. He was promoted to brigadier general in 1864 and served as the chief of artillery for the First Corps.

After the war, Alexander wrote his memoirs, "Military Memoirs of a Confederate," which were published in 1907. The book is considered one of the most important and insightful accounts of the Civil War from a Confederate perspective.

Here's an image of Edward Porter Alexander:

Sources:

• Wikipedia
• American Battlefield Trust
• Civil War Signals
• Essential Civil War Curriculum