General Joseph Finegan was a Confederate officer during the American Civil War. He was born in 1817 in New York and later moved to Florida, where he became involved in local politics and military affairs. Finegan played a significant role in several battles, including the Battle of Olustee, where he commanded Confederate forces. After the war, Finegan returned to Florida and continued his career in public service. He served as a state senator and was involved in various business ventures. Finegan passed away in 1885, leaving a legacy as a prominent figure in Florida's history during the Civil War era.