Submitted by Anonymous on 12/31/1998 10:00 PM Flag This Paper
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Tom Jackson was born in Virginia in 1824. Tom had a tough childhood but pulled through these tough times with hard work and determination. Even though part of his life was tough, he was determined to do the best he could in whatever he did, which why he is considered one of the most famous persons to live during the 1800's.
At the age of two Tom's father died. Without his father, Tom and his family faced many problems. They had no money to buy food, clothing, or other family needs. Tom and his family had to live in a one room cottage, which was hard since Tom had a brother and sister along with his mother. During this time Tom's mother became very sick. Tom and his siblings had to be sent away. Tom saw his mother once more before she died. A few months later Tom's brother died which made his life even more miserable.
After leaving his troubles behind, Tom decided to get an education at West Point College. This was an advantage for Tom because he never really had much of an education during his childhood. The college was free which made it easier for Tom to go to school since he did not have much money. Tom went to school and came back a new man. People did not think Tom would survive West Point, but he did. In fact, Tom was considered one of the top students at West Point.