Jefferson Davis was captured by Union cavalry forces on May 10, 1865, near Irwinville, Georgia.
The Capture of the Confederate President
As the American Civil War drew to a close, Jefferson Davis, who served as the president of the Confederate States of America from 1861 to 1865, became a primary target for Union forces. His capture marked a pivotal moment, signifying the near-complete dissolution of the Confederacy following major surrenders.
Details of the Capture
Davis's capture occurred approximately one month after Confederate General Robert E. Lee's surrender at Appomattox. He was attempting to evade the advancing Union forces when he was apprehended. The table below summarizes the key aspects of Jefferson Davis's capture:
| Aspect of Capture | Detail |
|---|---|
| Individual Captured | Jefferson Davis, President of the Confederate States of America |
| Date of Capture | May 10, 1865 |
| Location of Capture | Near Irwinville, Georgia |
| Capturing Force | Union Cavalry |
| Historical Context | Occurred approximately one month after Confederate General Robert E. Lee's surrender at Appomattox. |
This event symbolized the definitive end of the Confederate government's formal existence and the effective conclusion of the American Civil War.
