Ambrose Everts Burnside was born in Liberty, Indiana, the fourth of nine children. His parents, Edghill Burnside and Pamela Brown Burnside, were of Scots-Irish descent. His early life on the Indiana frontier instilled in him a strong work ethic and a practical approach to problem-solving, traits that would later define his diverse career.

Despite initially planning to become a tailor, Burnside received an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point. While not a stellar student (he graduated 18th out of 38 in his class), he excelled in practical skills and made valuable connections. His West Point education laid the foundation for his future military career.