Clingman, was born in Huntsville, a small community in present-day Yadkin County, North Carolina.

In 1843 Clingman ran as a Whig and was elected to the 28th United States Congress, however he was defeated in his reelection bid in 1845.

When he first entered the War, Clingman was the commander of the 25th North Carolina Infantry and took part in the Peninsula Campaign.

Clingman's Brigade fought at Goldsborough, Battery Wagner, Drewry's Bluff, Cold Harbor, Petersburg, Globe Tavern, Fort Fisher, and Bentonville.

After the Civil War, Clingman explored and measured mountains in western North Carolina and Tennessee.