Military & Warriors · 21st Century
General Sedgwick’s Last Words
“Honor the fallen.”— General Sedgwick, Unknown
Who Was General Sedgwick?
John Sedgwick was an American military officer who served as a major general in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He was one of the highest-ranking Union officers to be killed in the war, along with Major Generals James B. McPherson, Joseph K. Mansfield and John F.
The Final Moments
The circumstances surrounding General Sedgwick's final moments are not fully documented in available historical records.
Are These Words Verified?
General John Sedgwick's actual famous last words were 'They couldn't hit an elephant at this distance' moments before being killed by a Confederate sharpshooter in 1864, confirmed by multiple eyewitnesses. 'Honor the fallen' is fabricated.
Sources
- archive Union General John Sedgwick died May 9, 1864
- firsthand Famous last words: 'They couldn't hit an elephant at this distance'
- newspaper Multiple eyewitness accounts from Battle of Spotsylvania
Legacy
General Sedgwick's story continues to be discussed by historians and enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were General Sedgwick’s last words?
“Honor the fallen.”
How did General Sedgwick die?
General Sedgwick died on Unknown. Cause of death: Battle Or Natural Causes.
Were General Sedgwick’s last words documented?
General John Sedgwick's actual famous last words were 'They couldn't hit an elephant at this distance' moments before being killed by a Confederate sharpshooter in 1864, confirmed by multiple eyewitnesses. 'Honor the fallen' is fabricated.
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