General Joseph Hooker c. 1865

This carte-de-visite, a popular format for photographic portraits in the 19th century, depicts General Joseph Hooker, a prominent Union Army officer during the American Civil War. Taken around 1865, the image captures Hooker seated in a formal pose, his military uniform and regalia hinting at his rank and authority. The presence of a flag and sword further emphasize his military stature. Created by renowned photographer Charles D. Fredricks, this portrait exemplifies the stylistic conventions of Civil War era portraiture, employing a simple background to focus attention on the subject.