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Did General Custer Have Children?

Published in Custer family 2 mins read

No, General George Custer and his wife, Elizabeth Clift Bacon, did not have any children together. While there has been speculation about his paternity with another woman, historical consensus leans against it.

General George Armstrong Custer remains a prominent and often controversial figure in American history, primarily remembered for his military career and ultimate defeat at the Battle of the Little Bighorn. Beyond his public life, details of his personal and family life offer further insights into the man. For more on his personal life and family, you can refer to historical accounts.

Custer's Marriage to Elizabeth Clift Bacon

George Custer married Elizabeth Clift Bacon on February 9, 1864. Their bond was notably strong, with Elizabeth often accompanying him on campaigns and later dedicating her life to preserving his legacy. Despite their close relationship and marriage that lasted until Custer's death in 1876, George and Elizabeth Custer did not have any biological children. Their union was childless.

Speculation Regarding Children with Mo-nah-se-tah

Over the years, speculation has emerged concerning whether George Custer fathered children with a Cheyenne woman named Mo-nah-se-tah. Mo-nah-se-tah was the daughter of Chief Little Rock and was taken captive by Custer's command during the Battle of Washita in 1868. It has been suggested that she bore him two children.

However, most historians consider this claim to be highly unlikely. The primary reason for this skepticism is the prevailing belief among historians that Custer was sterile. This medical assessment significantly undermines the probability of him having fathered children, whether within or outside of his marriage.

To summarize the key information regarding General Custer's potential offspring:

  • With his wife, Elizabeth Clift Bacon: They had no biological children.
  • With Mo-nah-se-tah (Cheyenne woman): Speculation exists about him fathering two children, but this is largely dismissed by historians due to the belief that Custer was sterile.

Here's a quick overview:

Relationship Claimed Paternity Historical Consensus
Elizabeth Clift Bacon (Wife) None No biological children
Mo-nah-se-tah (Cheyenne Woman) Two children speculated Highly unlikely (Custer believed sterile)

In conclusion, the historical consensus is that General George Custer did not have any children.