Meade, George Gordon

(1815–1872) is best known for defeating Lee at the Battle of Gettysburg in 1863. He was appointed to command the Army of the Potomac just three days before the battle. Nevertheless, he was able to organize his forces to fight a successful campaign. This victory was marred by his ineffective pursuit during Lee’s retreat from Gettysburg and by the inconclusive campaigns in the autumn of 1863.