George Meade

George Meade

George Meade was born on December 31st, 1815

Full Name: George Gordon Meade
Place of Birth: Cádiz, Spain
Profession: General and Engineer
War Fought: American Civil War
Battle of Gettysburg: Union Victory
Parents: Richard Worsam Meade
College: United States Military Academy
Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Led the Union Army to victory in the Battle of Gettysburg, a turning point in the American Civil War, and later oversaw the construction of the Washington Aqueduct.

Written by: Fatima Ahmed Fatima Ahmed

George Meade: The Unsung Hero of the American Civil War

George Meade is best known for his pivotal role in the American Civil War, particularly for his triumph at the Battle of Gettysburg, which marked a crucial turning point in the war. As the commander of the Army of the Potomac, Meade led his troops to a decisive victory against the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia, led by General Robert E. Lee.

Early Life and Military Career

Rise to Prominence

The Battle of Gettysburg

Post-Gettysburg and Legacy

Personal Life and Relationships

Ulysses S. Grant.

Controversies and Criticisms

Abraham Lincoln was reportedly critical of Meade's performance at Gettysburg, feeling that he had not done enough to capitalize on the Union's victory. Despite these criticisms, Meade remained a respected and admired figure in the military and beyond.

Quote and Memorable Sayings

"I shall endeavor to do my duty to the best of my ability, and I hope that my acts may be satisfactory to all concerned." - George Meade

Awards and Honors

Historical Context and Legacy

Trivia and Fun Facts

  • Meade was a skilled engineer and cartographer, and used these skills to create detailed maps of the battlefields during the war.
  • Meade was known for his calm and composed demeanor under fire, earning him the nickname "the Snail" from his troops.
  • Meade's Gettysburg victory was commemorated in a poem by Herman Melville, titled "Gettysburg."
  • Conclusion

    Timeline
    1815
    Birth in Spain
    George Gordon Meade was born in Cádiz, Spain, to American parents.
    1831
    Graduates from West Point
    Meade graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he studied engineering and military tactics.
    1846
    Mexican-American War
    Meade served in the Mexican-American War, where he was brevetted for bravery at the Battle of Chapultepec.
    1863
    Battle of Gettysburg
    Meade led the Union Army to victory at the Battle of Gettysburg, a turning point in the American Civil War.
    1872
    Death in Philadelphia
    George Meade passed away on November 6, 1872, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and is remembered as a hero of the Civil War.
    George Meade

    George Meade Quiz

    What was George Meade's role in the American Civil War?

    Score: 0/5
    FAQ
    What was George Meades role in the American Civil War?
    George Meade was a Union general during the American Civil War, playing a key role in several battles, including the Battle of Gettysburg, where he led the Union army to victory.
    What were George Meades achievements as an engineer?
    George Meade was a skilled engineer and surveyor, who worked on several major projects, including the construction of the Delaware Breakwater and the Delaware River and Bay Authority.
    What was George Meades relationship with other Union generals?
    George Meade was a relatively unknown general until the Battle of Gettysburg, where he was thrust into command after the injury of General Winfield Scott Hancock. He had a difficult relationship with General Ulysses S. Grant, who later became President.
    What were George Meades views on slavery and the Civil War?
    George Meade was a moderate abolitionist, who believed that the Civil War was a necessary evil to preserve the Union and end slavery. He was critical of radical abolitionists, whom he saw as destabilizing the country.
    How is George Meade remembered today?
    George Meade is remembered as a competent and courageous general, who played a crucial role in the Union victory at Gettysburg. However, his legacy has been somewhat overshadowed by more prominent generals, such as Grant and Sherman.

    Related People:

    Ulysses S. Grant

    Born in 1822

    Led the Union Army to victory in the Civil War and later became President, known for issuing the Emancipation Proclamation and strengthening federal authority.

    Robert E. Lee

    Born in 1807

    Led the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War, surrendering to Union forces at Appomattox, marking the war's effective end.

    George B. McClellan

    Born in 1826

    A Union general during the American Civil War, he's infamous for his cautious tactics and disagreements with President Lincoln, later becoming a governor of New Jersey.

    Ambrose Burnside

    Born in 1824

    A Union general during the American Civil War, known for his distinctive sideburns and leading the Army of the Potomac to a disastrous defeat at the Battle of Fredericksburg.

    Joseph Hooker

    Born in 1814

    Union general who played a crucial role in the American Civil War, particularly at the Battle of Chancellorsville and Gettysburg.

    Winfield Scott

    Born in 1786

    Led the United States Army to victory in the Mexican-American War and was a presidential candidate in 1852, known for his military strategy and leadership.

    George B. McClellan

    Born in 1826

    A Union general during the American Civil War, he's infamous for his cautious tactics and disagreements with President Lincoln, later becoming a governor of New Jersey.