Jaycee Woods

I used Copilot to help me brainstorm ideas around The Butcher’s age and rank.

Prompt: What was the typical age of a one-star general during WW1?

Copilot: During World War I, the typical age of a one-star general (Brigadier General) varied, but they were generally in their late 40s to early 50s. This age range reflects the extensive military experience and service required to attain such a rank.

Prompt: What about a major?

Copilot: During World War I, the typical age of a major varied, but they were generally in their mid-30s to early 40s. This age range reflects the significant experience and leadership skills required for the rank, often involving around 15-20 years of military service.

Prompt: What about during the Civil War?

Copilot: During the American Civil War, the typical age of a major was generally in their early to mid-30s. This age range reflects the experience and leadership required for the rank, often involving around 10-15 years of military service.

Prompt: How old was Phil Sheridan at the start of the Civil War?

Copilot: Philip Sheridan was born on March 6, 1831. The American Civil War began on April 12, 1861, which means Sheridan was 30 years old at the start of the war.

Prompt: What was his rank at the start of the war?

Copilot: At the start of the Civil War in 1861, Philip Sheridan held the rank of second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. He was serving in the infantry and had been commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1853. Sheridan’s rise through the ranks was rapid during the war, eventually becoming one of the most prominent Union generals.

Prompt: Brevet? Is that the term for a field promotion in war that has not been confirmed by Congress?

Copilot: Yes, a brevet promotion was a temporary promotion to a higher rank, often granted for gallantry or meritorious service, without the corresponding pay or formal confirmation by Congress. This practice was common during the Civil War to quickly recognize and utilize the abilities of officers in the field.

Prompt: So, The Butcher might have the official rank of captain, but perform as a brevet Brigadier General due to the deaths of more senior officers?

Copilot: Yes, exactly! In such a scenario, “The Butcher” could hold the official rank of captain but be given a brevet promotion to brigadier general due to the deaths or incapacitation of more senior officers. This would allow him to perform the duties and responsibilities of a brigadier general in the field, even though his official rank remains captain.

Brevet promotions were a practical solution during times of war to ensure that capable leaders could step into critical roles as needed. This could make for an interesting and dynamic character in your story!

Prompt: In such a scenario, senior confirmed officers might resent a 35-year-old with such a meteoric rise?

Copilot: Absolutely, senior confirmed officers might indeed resent a 35-year-old with such a rapid rise through the ranks, especially if they perceive it as undeserved or driven by extraordinary circumstances rather than traditional career progression. This kind of tension could create an interesting dynamic in your story, highlighting themes of jealousy, rivalry, and the challenges of leadership in wartime. Such a scenario could also explore the pressures and expectations placed on “The Butcher” as he navigates his new responsibilities and the skepticism of his peers. It could add depth to his character, showing how he earns respect and proves his capabilities despite the initial resentment.