American Civil War: Scott Steps Down

October 31, 1861 - General Winfield Scott's (right) 53-year military career comes to an end. Entering the US Army in 1808, Winfield Scott rapidly moved through the ranks during the War of 1812. A highly skilled officer who believed in training and discipline, he led his men to victory at Chippawa in July 1814 before being wounded a few weeks later at Lundy's Lane. Emerging from the war as a brigadier general, he subsequently commanded troops during the Black Hawk War, Nullification Crisis, Second Seminole War, and Cherokee removal. Named general-in-chief in 1841, he commanded a 12,000-man invasion force during the Mexican-American War. Landing near Vera Cruz in 1847, he took the city before mounting a stunning campaign which captured Mexico City. A failed presidential candidate in 1852, he oversaw the Union Army during the early days of the Civil War. Unlike most, he believed the conflict would be long and devised the "Anaconda Plan" for defeating the Confederacy. Derided by many, it ultimately provided the roadmap to victory. Considered old and out-of-touch, he was pressured to resign in late 1861, and Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan replaced him on November 1. Scott was arguably the best American commander of the 19th century and one of the best the nation has produced. Share your thoughts on where Scott ranks.

Photograph Courtesy of the US Army Military History Institute