Name John Roane Nationality American | Political party Democratic Succeeded by Elias Nelson Conway Spouse(s) Mary Smith | |
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Preceded by Richard Byrdas Acting Governor Previous office Governor of Arkansas (1849–1852) Similar People Thomas C Hindman, Francis J Herron, James G Blunt, Jefferson Davis, Zachary Taylor | ||
John Selden Roane (January 8, 1817 – April 7, 1867) was an American politician who served as the 4th Governor of Arkansas from 1849 to 1852.
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Early life and career
John Selden Roane was born in Wilson County, Tennessee, and educated at Cumberland College, which at the time was located in Princeton, Kentucky. He migrated to the new state of Arkansas in 1837, studied law, and was admitted to the bar. Roane was Prosecuting Attorney for the 2nd Judicial District of Arkansas from 1840 to 1842, a member of the Arkansas House of Representatives from 1842 to 1844, and the 4th Governor of Arkansas from 1849 to 1852.
Mexican-American War
At the outbreak of the Mexican-American War, Roane was appointed Lieutenant-Colonel of the Arkansas Mounted Infantry Regiment, succeeding to command when Colonel Archibald Yell was mortally wounded repelling the charge of the Mexican lancers at the Battle of Buena Vista. Roane was officially appointed Colonel on February 28, 1847. He was known to be jealous of the honor of his state and once challenged Albert Pike to a duel over what he perceived as derogatory statements made about the regiment's actions in the war. The duel was fought, but neither combatant was injured.
American Civil War
On March 20, 1862, Roane received a commission as Brigadier-General in the Provisional Army of the Confederate States. After most troops were moved from Arkansas across the Mississippi River, he was placed in charge of the defense of Arkansas. At this time the state was nearly defenseless; and Roane, with the newly appointed commander of the Trans-Mississippi District Major-General Thomas Hindman, cobbled together a reasonable defensive force. Roane's brigade took part in numerous battles in the Trans-Mississippi District, including the Battle of Whitney's Lane, Arkansas, and then the Battle of Prairie Grove, Arkansas.
Personal life
On February 1, 1855, Roane married Mary Smith (1833–1907) in Dallas County, Arkansas.
Later life
Roane died in Jefferson County, Arkansas, and is buried at Oaklawn Cemetery in Little Rock.