Daniel Ullman: Lawyer, Politician, and Union General
Daniel Ullman (1810–1892) was a multifaceted figure in 19th-century American history. A Jewish lawyer and politician from New York, Ullman transitioned from the halls of legal practice and political campaigning to the battlefields of the American Civil War. He is most remembered for his pivotal role in organizing and leading African American soldiers during the Union effort.
Key Facts
- Born: April 28, 1810, in Wilmington, Delaware.
- Education: Graduated from Yale University in 1829.
- Political Peak: Won 26% of the vote as the American Party candidate for Governor of New York in 1854.
- Military Rank: Brigadier General (Brevet Major General).
- Major Contribution: Raised five regiments of African American soldiers for the Corps d'Afrique.
- Died: September 20, 1892, in Nyack, New York.
Early Life and Political Career
After graduating from Yale, Ullman established a legal practice in New York City. He entered politics as a member of the Whig Party, where he became a known opponent of William H. Seward's leadership. Ullman frequently sought public office, most notably running for the governorship of New York in 1854 as the candidate for the American Party (often referred to as the "Know Nothings"). His campaign was highly successful, capturing 26% of the vote and contributing to the defeat of Horatio Seymour.
A Witness to New York Mysteries
Ullman's life was marked by unexpected encounters with high-profile crimes. In 1857, while living in a boarding house at 31 Bond Street in Manhattan, he became a witness in the Burdell–Cunningham Trial. Dr. Harvey Burdell, a wealthy dentist, was stabbed to death in the house. Suspicion fell upon the landlady, Mrs. Emma Augusta Cunningham, and a lodger named Mr. John Eckel.
Ullman testified during the coroner's court, noting that Mrs. Cunningham appeared to show grief and horror following the discovery of the body. Despite the prosecution by District Attorney A. Oakey Hall, both defendants were acquitted, and the murder remains unsolved.
Civil War Service and the Corps d'Afrique
When the American Civil War broke out, Ullman served as the colonel of the 78th New York Infantry Regiment. His military journey began with hardship; he was captured at the Battle of Cedar Mountain in August 1862 and held at Libby Prison for two months before being paroled.
Following his release, Ullman approached President Abraham Lincoln with a proposal to enlist African Americans into the Union Army. This led to his promotion to brigadier general in January 1863. Sent to Louisiana, Ullman organized five regiments of African American soldiers, forming a unit known as the Corps d'Afrique. He commanded a brigade consisting of these infantry regiments and a regiment of colored engineers.
Ullman led these troops during the Siege of Port Hudson, a grueling conflict where his men suffered heavy casualties. He continued to lead colored troops throughout the war, commanding a full division by mid-1864. However, his tenure ended prematurely when he was relieved of command shortly before the war's conclusion due to an alcohol problem. He was mustered out in August 1865 and received the rank of brevet Major General for his service.
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Summary of Service and Life
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | Yale University (Class of 1829) |
| Political Affiliations | Whig Party, American Party |
| Military Commands | 78th New York Infantry, Corps d'Afrique, District of Port Hudson |
| Key Conflict | American Civil War |
| Final Rank | Brevet Major General |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Daniel Ullman's role in the Corps d'Afrique?
Daniel Ullman was instrumental in the creation of the Corps d'Afrique in Louisiana, where he raised five regiments of African American soldiers and commanded a brigade of infantry and engineers.
Which major battle did Ullman participate in before his capture?
Ullman participated in the Battle of Cedar Mountain in August 1862, where he was captured and detained at Libby Prison.
How did Ullman influence the 1854 New York gubernatorial election?
Running as the American Party (Know Nothing) candidate, Ullman won 26% of the vote, which played a significant role in the defeat of Horatio Seymour.
What was Ullman's involvement in the Burdell–Cunningham Trial?
Ullman was a fellow lodger of the victim, Dr. Harvey Burdell, and served as a witness during the trial of Mrs. Cunningham and Mr. Eckel, who were ultimately acquitted of the murder.
Why was Daniel Ullman relieved of his military command?
Ullman was relieved of his command shortly before the end of the Civil War due to a struggle with alcohol.