Meaning: This quote is attributed to John Hunt Morgan, a Confederate general during the American Civil War. The quote reflects Morgan's attempt to reassure the people of the areas he was operating in that he did not intend to disrupt their lives or infringe upon their rights. It is a statement that emphasizes his respect for the rights of the civilian population, despite the tumultuous and divisive circumstances of the war.

During the Civil War, John Hunt Morgan gained notoriety for his daring raids and unconventional tactics as a cavalry commander for the Confederate Army. He was known for leading his men on numerous raids into Union territory, causing disruption and anxiety for the Northern forces. However, despite his aggressive military actions, Morgan attempted to project an image of respect for the civilian population in the areas where his forces operated.

In the quote, Morgan addresses the people directly, using the term "Gen. Commanding" to refer to himself as the general in command of the Confederate forces. By doing so, he seeks to establish a personal connection with the local population, conveying a sense of responsibility and authority while also expressing his intentions.

Morgan's statement reflects an understanding of the fears and concerns that the civilian population may have had about the presence of Confederate forces in their midst. The Civil War brought tremendous upheaval and uncertainty to the lives of ordinary people, with armies crisscrossing the countryside, battles raging, and property being destroyed or confiscated. In this context, Morgan's reassurance that he had not come to disturb the people in the enjoyment of their rights, whether of person or property, would have been intended to allay some of the anxieties and fears that the local population may have harbored.

It is important to note that Morgan's words may have been intended as much for propaganda purposes as for genuine reassurance. By portraying himself as a protector of the people's rights, he could have aimed to win the support or at least the tolerance of the civilian population in the areas where he operated. This would have been particularly important for a Confederate commander leading raids into Union territory, where he would have relied on the support or at least the neutrality of the local population.

Morgan's statement also reflects the broader historical context of the Civil War, in which both sides sought to justify their actions and gain the support of the civilian population. In the midst of a conflict that deeply divided the nation, both Union and Confederate leaders were keenly aware of the importance of public opinion and the perceptions of their actions among the civilian population.

In conclusion, John Hunt Morgan's quote conveys his attempt to reassure the people in the areas where he operated that he had not come to disturb their rights or property. It reflects his awareness of the concerns and fears of the civilian population and his recognition of the importance of public opinion in the midst of a tumultuous and divisive conflict. Whether genuinely intended to protect the rights of the people or as a strategic maneuver to gain their support, the quote encapsulates the complexities of the Civil War and the efforts of military leaders to navigate the challenges of operating in hostile territory.