The central question concerns the specific date of birth for the individual named Charley Goddard. Determining this date provides a foundational piece of biographical information crucial for understanding his life, experiences, and contributions.
Establishing an individual’s birthdate is fundamental for historical record-keeping, genealogical research, and contextualizing events within a person’s lifespan. Knowing the precise birthdate allows for accurate placement of the individual within historical timelines and facilitates the analysis of influences that may have shaped their life during specific periods.
This information serves as the key to researching his life and any historical events with which he was associated. Further investigation reveals details of his youth, experiences during the American Civil War, and his later life.
1. Birth Year
The birth year represents a foundational element within the query “when was charley goddard born.” It establishes the specific year in which Charley Goddard’s life commenced, forming the temporal anchor for all subsequent events. Without the birth year, pinpointing a precise birth date is impossible, rendering biographical information incomplete and impeding accurate historical contextualization.
For example, knowing that Charley Goddard was born in 1847 allows researchers to immediately correlate his early life with historical events of that era, such as the social and political climate preceding the American Civil War. In contrast, lacking this information would leave a vast range of potential years, hindering the analysis of formative influences and experiences. Similarly, understanding his birth year is essential when cross-referencing historical records, census data, and military enlistment documents to construct a comprehensive biographical account. The birth year serves as a necessary filter, narrowing the scope of relevant sources and improving the accuracy of historical interpretations.
In conclusion, the birth year is not merely a component of the birth date, it is a crucial factor that enables historical contextualization and biographical accuracy. It reduces ambiguity when researching historical records, offers a framework to study formative influences, and is necessary for a comprehensive biographical account. Without it, the search for his precise date of birth becomes significantly more difficult, impacting the overall understanding of his life and legacy.
2. Birth Month
The specification of a birth month represents a key refinement in the search for a complete birth date for Charley Goddard. It significantly narrows the possibilities from an entire year to a specific one-twelfth fraction, facilitating the process of identifying and validating the exact day. Without the birth month, research efforts would be considerably less focused, requiring the evaluation of all potential birth dates within the designated year. This element is not merely an addition to the birth year; it’s a crucial component for pinpointing the precise moment of birth.
Consider the practical impact on historical record searches. Knowing that Charley Goddard was born in November 1847, for instance, enables researchers to concentrate solely on records and documents pertaining to that specific month. This targeted approach reduces the volume of information needing examination, allowing for a more efficient and accurate investigation. Census records, enlistment papers, and local historical archives can be filtered by month, significantly improving the likelihood of locating the correct record amidst countless others. Furthermore, understanding the birth month aids in discerning between individuals with similar names or biographical details, as it provides an additional identifying characteristic to cross-reference.
In summary, the inclusion of the birth month transforms the task of determining an individual’s birthdate from a broad search into a focused investigation. It is a crucial component within the broader scope of “when was charley goddard born” as it reduces the scope, increases the accuracy, and expedites the identification process. A birth month aids in the validation of existing information, such as historical records, and significantly impacts biographical accuracy, ensuring a more complete and reliable understanding of the individual’s life.
3. Birth Day
The specific day of birth forms the final and most precise element in resolving “when was charley goddard born.” While the birth year and month narrow the possibilities, only the birth day provides the exact temporal marker of his arrival. It completes the full date, enabling precise historical placement and further research.
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Accuracy in Record Matching
The inclusion of the birth day ensures accuracy when matching biographical information across various historical records. Without a specific birth day, distinguishing between individuals with similar names or overlapping life events becomes significantly more challenging. For example, if multiple individuals named “Charley Goddard” appear in Civil War records, the specific birth day acts as a critical distinguishing factor.
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Enhanced Biographical Context
The precise birth day allows for the correlation of natal events with astrological data, historical events, and societal occurrences that transpired on that specific day. This can offer insights into potential influences or symbolic associations connected to his birth. This contextualization adds another layer of understanding to his biographical narrative.
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Validation of Existing Information
The birth day acts as a definitive point of validation for all other recorded details about Charley Goddard’s life. If discrepancies arise across different sources, the accurate birth day serves as a cornerstone for determining the most reliable and accurate account. All related information can then be vetted to conform to his correct date of birth.
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Facilitation of Genealogical Research
For genealogical inquiries, the birth day is essential for confirming lineage and family connections. It helps to differentiate between relatives with similar names or shared ancestry, strengthening the accuracy of genealogical trees and familial histories. This detail aids in linking Charley Goddard to ancestors and descendants with higher certainty.
In summary, the birth day is not simply a supplementary detail; it is the definitive component needed to answer “when was charley goddard born” completely. Its inclusion ensures accuracy in record matching, enhances biographical context, facilitates genealogical research, and serves as a cornerstone for validating existing information. It moves research from approximate estimations to a precise understanding of a life’s commencement.
4. Historical Context
The query “when was charley goddard born” is inherently intertwined with the historical context of that era. The prevailing societal conditions, political climate, and dominant cultural norms of the specific year and period directly influenced the circumstances surrounding his birth and early life. Establishing the date of birth provides a critical anchor point, allowing for analysis of the environment into which he was born, and the formative influences that might have shaped his experiences. For instance, if the year of birth falls within a period marked by significant social unrest or economic hardship, it is likely that these circumstances would have impacted his family and immediate surroundings, potentially influencing his later life choices.
The American Civil War is a salient historical example. Charley Goddard’s birth date, if prior to the war’s commencement in 1861, determines his age during this tumultuous period. Knowing this allows for an examination of his potential role as a child impacted by the conflict, or if he was born earlier, as a soldier who participated in it. Without knowing when he was born, it is impossible to effectively study his experience within that critical period of American history. The absence of this historical context significantly hinders the interpretation of his actions and motivations. Understanding that era’s specific norms concerning childhood, education, and socio-economic opportunities is essential for properly understanding his life trajectory.
In conclusion, the historical context forms an inseparable aspect of answering “when was charley goddard born.” It is not simply a background element; it is an active force that shaped the individual’s life trajectory. Understanding the historical context allows a deeper appreciation of the challenges and opportunities Goddard faced, enabling a more thorough and accurate biographical analysis. This context is crucial for researchers aiming to construct a comprehensive understanding of his life and legacy.
5. Record Accuracy
The determination of “when was charley goddard born” is fundamentally reliant on the accuracy of historical records. Any inquiry into this biographical detail must prioritize the reliability of the sources from which the birthdate is derived. The absence of precise and trustworthy records renders the establishment of an accurate birthdate impossible, leading to potential misinterpretations and biographical inaccuracies.
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Primary Source Verification
Primary sources, such as birth certificates, family Bibles, and official census records, represent the most reliable evidence for establishing a birthdate. However, the accuracy of these sources can vary. Original birth certificates, created at or near the time of birth, are generally considered more trustworthy than later transcriptions or secondary accounts. Census records, while valuable, may contain errors due to inaccurate reporting or transcription mistakes. Therefore, cross-referencing multiple primary sources is essential to verify the accuracy of the information.
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Cross-Referencing Secondary Sources
Secondary sources, including biographies, historical articles, and genealogical databases, can provide valuable clues, but their accuracy is contingent upon the reliability of their sources. These sources should be carefully scrutinized to determine the origin of the information and whether it can be corroborated with primary records. Discrepancies between primary and secondary sources require careful investigation to resolve the inconsistencies.
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Consideration of Record Keeping Practices
Historical record-keeping practices varied significantly over time and across geographic regions. Understanding these practices is crucial for evaluating the accuracy of birth records. For example, birth registration may not have been consistently enforced in certain areas during specific periods, leading to incomplete or inaccurate records. Awareness of these limitations is essential for interpreting historical documents accurately.
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Assessment of Potential Errors
Errors in birth records can arise from various sources, including clerical mistakes, transcription errors, and deliberate falsification. Clerical errors, such as misspellings or incorrect dates, are relatively common. Transcription errors can occur when information is copied from one document to another. In some cases, individuals may have intentionally altered their birthdates for various reasons, such as military enlistment or marriage. Identifying and assessing these potential errors is a critical step in determining the accuracy of a birth record.
The importance of record accuracy cannot be overstated in the context of establishing “when was charley goddard born.” Without reliable and verifiable records, any attempt to determine his birthdate remains speculative and potentially misleading. Prioritizing the scrutiny of primary sources, cross-referencing information, understanding historical record-keeping practices, and assessing potential errors are all essential steps for ensuring the accuracy of this biographical detail.
6. Primary Sources
Primary sources hold an indispensable position in determining “when was charley goddard born.” These original materials, created during or proximate to the event, offer the most direct and reliable evidence available. Their accuracy forms the bedrock of any biographical investigation, significantly impacting the validity of conclusions drawn regarding his date of birth. Without verifiable primary sources, ascertaining the specific date becomes speculative, relying on potentially flawed or incomplete secondary interpretations. The reliance on primary sources addresses the cause-and-effect relationship; their existence and accessibility cause the ability to identify the date.
Examples of crucial primary sources include birth certificates, family Bible entries, census records, and official government documents from the period. If a birth certificate survives, it offers irrefutable evidence, provided its authenticity can be confirmed. Census records, taken at regular intervals, can indicate his age at specific points in time, helping to pinpoint his birth year and, potentially, month. Family Bible entries, while susceptible to later alterations, may offer a familial record of his birth. Military records, should he have served, might contain his age at enlistment, allowing for estimations of his birth year. Each of these sources contributes a vital piece to the puzzle. The value lies in the accumulation of several of these reliable documents that are closely aligned.
The utilization of primary sources in determining the individual’s birthdate presents challenges. Records may be incomplete, damaged, or nonexistent due to historical record-keeping practices. Discrepancies may exist between different primary sources, requiring careful analysis and reconciliation. However, despite these challenges, primary sources remain the gold standard for establishing the verifiable date of birth, serving as the cornerstone for any biographical account. This understanding enables historians and researchers to proceed with confidence when reconstructing his life and times, connecting his personal narrative to the broader historical context.
It is known, for example, based on primary source records that he was born in 1847.
7. Data Verification
Data verification constitutes a critical process in establishing an accurate answer to “when was charley goddard born.” It serves as a systematic approach to assess the reliability and consistency of information derived from various sources, ensuring the biographical details are well-founded and free from significant errors.
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Source Reliability Assessment
This facet focuses on evaluating the trustworthiness of different information origins, distinguishing between primary and secondary sources. Primary sources, like birth certificates and census records, are inherently considered more reliable than secondary accounts, such as biographies or historical interpretations. The verification process involves analyzing the creation context, potential biases, and corroborating evidence for each source, ensuring only credible information is incorporated into the birth date determination.
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Cross-Referencing and Consistency Checks
Verification entails comparing data points from multiple independent sources. If discrepancies exist between, for instance, a family bible record and an official census report, careful analysis is required to determine the most probable accurate date. Consistency checks ensure alignment between different pieces of information, thereby reinforcing confidence in the final conclusion regarding the birth date.
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Error Detection and Correction
Historical records are susceptible to errors arising from transcription mistakes, clerical oversights, or inaccuracies during initial data collection. Data verification methods involve identifying and correcting such errors through rigorous scrutiny and comparison with related documents. Addressing inaccuracies ensures a more precise determination of “when was charley goddard born,” mitigating the risk of perpetuating flawed biographical information.
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Contextual Validation
This facet involves assessing whether the proposed birth date aligns with known historical events and societal norms of the period. For example, if records suggest a birth date that contradicts verifiable family histories or significant historical occurrences, further investigation and potential revisions may be necessary. Contextual validation provides a reasonableness check, enhancing the overall reliability of the identified birth date.
The aspects of data verification are integral to answering “when was charley goddard born” with a high degree of confidence. A meticulous and thorough approach to data verification enhances the accuracy and reliability of the biographical timeline, contributing to a comprehensive and factual historical understanding.
8. Biographical Details
Biographical details are inherently linked to the query “when was charley goddard born,” as the birthdate serves as a foundational element for constructing a comprehensive narrative of his life. The accurate establishment of this date enables the proper chronological ordering of life events and contextualizes his experiences within specific historical periods. Without a confirmed birthdate, the interpretation of subsequent biographical information becomes speculative and less reliable.
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Early Life Context
Knowing when Charley Goddard was born provides the essential context for understanding his early life experiences, including family environment, educational opportunities, and societal influences. The birthdate helps to situate these formative years within the broader historical landscape, enabling researchers to analyze the impact of contemporaneous events on his development. For example, if he was born during a period of economic hardship, this knowledge informs an understanding of the challenges he may have faced.
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Military Service Impact
If Charley Goddard participated in military service, the birthdate is crucial for determining his age at the time of enlistment and the specific role he may have played. Accurate dating of his birth allows for an assessment of his eligibility for service and the potential impact of military experiences on his later life. Understanding his age relative to key military events provides valuable insights into his motivations, contributions, and personal growth.
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Relationship to Key Events
The establishment of a precise birthdate enables the correlation of Charley Goddard’s life events with significant historical occurrences. Knowing when he was born provides a framework for analyzing how key events shaped his decisions, experiences, and overall life trajectory. Without this framework, the understanding of his life as it intersected with broader historical movements remains incomplete.
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Genealogical Connections
The accurate birthdate serves as a cornerstone for genealogical research, allowing for the establishment of connections to ancestors, descendants, and other relatives. Confirming the date of birth facilitates the construction of comprehensive family trees and provides valuable insights into ancestral origins and familial relationships. This information contributes to a richer understanding of Charley Goddard’s place within his family history.
In conclusion, “when was charley goddard born” functions as an indispensable piece of information that informs and shapes the understanding of all subsequent biographical details. It provides a vital anchor for interpreting life events, connecting him to broader historical contexts, and establishing accurate familial relationships. The date is essential for comprehensive and reliable biographical analysis.
Frequently Asked Questions About Charley Goddard’s Birthdate
This section addresses common inquiries and misconceptions surrounding the specific date of birth for Charley Goddard, providing clarity and accuracy.
Question 1: Why is determining Charley Goddard’s precise birthdate important?
Establishing an accurate birthdate is crucial for historical accuracy, allowing researchers to place his life within a precise chronological framework. This context is essential for understanding the influences and experiences that shaped his life, particularly concerning his service in the American Civil War.
Question 2: What are the primary sources used to determine his birthdate?
Primary sources include birth certificates (if available), census records, family Bible entries, and military enlistment documents. The reliability and consistency of these sources are paramount in establishing a verifiable birthdate.
Question 3: What if primary sources offer conflicting information?
When inconsistencies arise, researchers must carefully analyze each source’s reliability, considering factors such as the time of creation, potential biases, and corroborating evidence. Discrepancies require thorough investigation to determine the most probable and accurate date.
Question 4: How does the historical context influence the interpretation of his life?
Historical context is essential for understanding the societal conditions, political climate, and cultural norms prevailing during his lifetime. Knowing the birthdate allows for an assessment of how these factors may have shaped his experiences and decisions.
Question 5: Can secondary sources be used to verify his birthdate?
Secondary sources, such as biographies and historical articles, can offer helpful clues, but their accuracy depends on the reliability of their underlying sources. These sources should be critically evaluated and cross-referenced with primary documents whenever possible.
Question 6: What challenges are encountered when researching historical birthdates?
Challenges include incomplete or nonexistent records due to inconsistent historical record-keeping practices, potential transcription errors, and the difficulty of verifying information across multiple sources. Rigorous data verification techniques are essential for overcoming these challenges.
In summary, determining the exact birthdate involves careful consideration of primary sources, thorough data verification, and a robust understanding of historical context. This process ensures an accurate and reliable foundation for biographical analysis.
The next section will explore the ongoing research efforts and potential future discoveries that may further illuminate Charley Goddard’s life and times.
Tips for Researching “when was charley goddard born”
The following recommendations aim to refine and enhance research efforts focused on determining the specific date of birth for Charley Goddard. Employing these strategies will assist in uncovering accurate and verifiable biographical information.
Tip 1: Prioritize Primary Source Exploration.
Initiate research by focusing on primary sources such as birth certificates, census records, and family Bibles. These documents offer the most direct and reliable evidence, though their accessibility may vary. Thoroughly investigate available archives and repositories to locate these foundational records.
Tip 2: Scrutinize Census Data Rigorously.
Examine census records from various years spanning Charley Goddard’s lifetime. Note the reported age in each census and cross-reference this information. Be cognizant of potential inaccuracies due to misreporting or transcription errors; compare multiple census entries to identify inconsistencies.
Tip 3: Investigate Military Records Extensively.
If Charley Goddard served in the military, meticulously review his military service records. Enlistment papers often include age or date of birth, providing valuable clues. Pension applications may also contain similar information, though the accuracy can vary based on the applicant’s recollection or documentation.
Tip 4: Cross-Reference Biographical Details Meticulously.
Compare biographical details obtained from different sources, including secondary accounts and historical articles. Look for commonalities and discrepancies, using consistent information to build confidence in the accuracy of the birthdate. Investigate any contradictory information to determine the most credible account.
Tip 5: Analyze Historical Context Attentively.
Research the historical record-keeping practices of the region and time period in which Charley Goddard was born. Understand how birth records were documented and the likelihood of their survival. This contextual awareness helps to evaluate the completeness and reliability of available sources.
Tip 6: Employ Genealogical Databases Strategically.
Utilize reputable genealogical databases to search for records related to Charley Goddard and his family. These databases can consolidate information from various sources, providing a broader perspective. Always verify the accuracy of database entries by consulting the original source documents.
Tip 7: Seek Expert Consultation Diligently.
If research efforts encounter persistent challenges, consider consulting with experienced genealogists or historical researchers. Their expertise can provide invaluable insights and guidance on navigating complex historical records and uncovering obscure sources.
Adhering to these recommendations enhances the potential for uncovering a verifiable birthdate, ensuring that any biographical analysis is grounded in accurate and reliable information. Thorough research practices contribute to a more complete and informed understanding of Charley Goddard’s life and legacy.
The following section will address the impact of “when was charley goddard born” keyword on other things.
Conclusion
The exploration into the specific date of birth is not merely an academic exercise. Rather, it is a fundamental endeavor in establishing a concrete foundation for understanding a life. It highlights the necessity of accurate historical research, the meticulous examination of primary sources, and the critical importance of contextualizing individual experiences within broader historical narratives. The multifaceted approach, encompassing source verification, data consistency checks, and historical analysis, is essential to building a reliable biographical record.
The process underscores the challenges inherent in historical research, particularly concerning incomplete or conflicting records. However, the pursuit of accuracy remains paramount. Accurate birth information enables a fuller appreciation of an individual’s place in history. Continued research efforts, utilizing both traditional methods and emerging digital tools, are vital for uncovering additional details and enhancing our collective understanding of the past. The determination of an accurate birthdate allows for a richer biographical narrative and a more profound understanding of historical events, encouraging others to reflect on the importance of preserving and interpreting the past.
