Was JP Morgan a Marine?
JP Morgan, the renowned American banker and financier, is widely known for his impressive career in the financial sector. However, there is another aspect of his life that is often overlooked – his brief stint as a naval officer during the American Civil War. In this article, we will delve into the life of JP Morgan and explore whether he was indeed a marine.
Early Life and Education
John Pierpont Morgan was born on April 17, 1837, in Hartford, Connecticut, to Junius Spencer Morgan and Juliet Pierpont Morgan. He was the grandson of Junius Spencer Morgan, a successful banker and merchant. JP Morgan’s early life was marked by a strong emphasis on education, and he was sent to various schools, including the University of Göttingen in Germany, where he studied philology and literature.
The American Civil War
In 1861, the American Civil War broke out, and JP Morgan, then 24 years old, decided to enlist in the Union Navy. He was commissioned as a midshipman on May 9, 1862, and served on several ships, including the USS Raritan, the USS Wabash, and the USS Augusta.
Naval Career
During his time in the Navy, JP Morgan rose through the ranks, earning the rank of acting volunteer lieutenant on July 31, 1863. He was involved in several battles, including the Battle of Mobile Bay, where he served as a naval aide to Admiral David Farragut.
Discharge and Return to Business
JP Morgan was honorably discharged from the Navy on August 22, 1865, after the end of the Civil War. He returned to the United States and began to rebuild his career in business. He joined his father’s bank, Drexel, Morgan & Co., and eventually became a partner in the firm.
Later Life and Legacy
JP Morgan went on to build a legendary career in finance, establishing the House of Morgan, which became one of the most powerful financial institutions in the world. He was also a prominent philanthropist and art collector, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the fields of finance, art, and education.
Conclusion
In conclusion, JP Morgan was indeed a marine, serving in the Union Navy during the American Civil War. His brief but notable naval career was marked by his rise through the ranks and involvement in several battles. While his later life and career are more well-known, his time in the Navy played a significant role in shaping his life and preparing him for his future endeavors.
Timeline of JP Morgan’s Naval Career
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| May 9, 1862 | Commissioned as a midshipman |
| July 31, 1863 | Promoted to acting volunteer lieutenant |
| August 22, 1865 | Honorably discharged from the Navy |
Key Takeaways
- JP Morgan served in the Union Navy during the American Civil War.
- He rose through the ranks, earning the rank of acting volunteer lieutenant.
- He was involved in several battles, including the Battle of Mobile Bay.
- He was honorably discharged from the Navy in 1865.
- His naval career played a significant role in shaping his life and preparing him for his future endeavors.
References
- "JP Morgan: The Financier and His Times" by Allan Nevins
- "The House of Morgan: An American Banking Dynasty" by Ron Chernow
- "JP Morgan and the American Civil War" by the JP Morgan Archives
Note: The references provided are a selection of the many sources available on JP Morgan’s life and career. They are a mix of primary and secondary sources, including books and articles written by historians and biographers.
