Gordon, John

B., soldier and statesman, was born in Upson co., Georgia, Feb. 6, 1832; graduated from the University of Georgia, and studied law; entered the Confederate service in 1861, and rose to the rank of lieutenant-general after a brilliant career in the field, during which he was eight times wounded. G. was a Democratic Presidential elector in 1868 and 1872; was sent to the U. S. Senate in the latter year, resigned in 1880, and was governor of Georgia from 1886 to 1890, when he again became U. S. Senator, holding that position until 1897. General G. has lectured extensively on war topics, and has been commander-in-chief of the United Confederate Veterans.