Generals during the Civil War commanded brigades, division, corps and armies. They also commanded departments or held specialized positions as senior aides, inspectors and surgeons. Some were professional soldiers, i.e. graduates of the United States Military Academy at West Point, Norwich University, or the Virginia Military Institute. Others were prominent civilians who attained the rank either by political influence or superior performance on the field of battle.

Twenty-four Vermont-born soldiers attained permanent general rank during the Civil War, and an adidtional six held the brank of brigadier general by brevet (A commission promoting a military officer in rank without an increase in pay, usually as an honorific for meritorious service). Thirteen Vermont generals graduates from West Point, three from Norwich University. Three Vermont generals received the Medal of Honor.

In addition, Vermonters served as Adjutant and Inspector General, Quartermaster General and Surgeon General at the State level. While these officers receive little credit outside the State, their services were absolutely critical to the success of the Green Mountain State's contribution to the war, and their biographical sketches are included here as well.

Most of the articles herein are simple outlines of the officers' lives, including more military material than anything else. Eventually we hope to expand most of them to substantive biographical sketches.