Background
Doniphan, Alexander William was born on July 9, 1808 in Maysville, Kentucky, United States. Son of Joseph and Anne (Smith) Doniphan.
Doniphan, Alexander William was born on July 9, 1808 in Maysville, Kentucky, United States. Son of Joseph and Anne (Smith) Doniphan.
Graduate Augusta College, 1826.
Began practice of law in Missouri, 1830, became leading Missouri lawyer specialized in criminal cases. Member Missouri Legislature, 1836, 40, 54. Commanded a brigade against Mormons, refused to carry out the later revoked court martial sentence of death against Joseph Smith.
Commanding officer in New Mexico during Mexican War, 1846-1848.
Lead regiment of Missourians from Valverde, New Mexico to Chihuahua, Mexico (one of most brilliant long marches ever made), 1846-1847. Missouri delegate to Washington (District of Columbia) Peace Conference, 1861.
Major general in command Missouri Militia, 1861.
Member Missouri Legislature, 1836, 40, 54.
Married Elizabeth Thornton, December 21, 1837, 2 children.