Born on December 31, 1834, in the historical community of Thralls Prairie[1] in Boone County, Missouri,[2] Philips attended the common schools and the University of Missouri,[3] then received an Artium Baccalaureus degree in 1855 from Centre College and read law in 1857.

[3] He was a United States Army colonel commanding the Seventh Regiment of the Missouri Volunteer Cavalry from 1861 to 1865, during the American Civil War.

[4] Continuing in command after having taken the ford, Philips' brigade played a key role in the crushing victory at Mine Creek two days later.

[3] Following his departure from Congress, Philips resumed private practice in Kansas City, Missouri from 1881 to 1882.

[2] Philips was a member of the defense team for the 1883 Gallatin, Missouri murder trial of Frank James.