James Gadsden

James Gadsden (May 15, 1788 –December 26, 1858) was an American diplomat, soldier and businessman for whom is named the Gadsden Purchase, which the United States bought from Mexico the land that became the southern portion of Arizona and New Mexico. James Gadsden served as Adjutant General of the U. S. Army from August 13, 1821 – March 22, 1822. He was commonly known as General Gadsden, although he never held a rank above Colonel.