Philip Sheridan
1831–1888 · American (Union) · American Civil War
Known for: Union cavalry commander whose Shenandoah Valley Campaign and ride from Winchester turned the tide of the Civil War
Philip Sheridan was the Union's most aggressive cavalry commander—short, combative, and absolutely devastating in battle. His Shenandoah Valley Campaign of 1864 destroyed the Confederacy's breadbasket through scorched-earth tactics that presaged Sherman's March to the Sea.
His most famous moment was his ride from Winchester—galloping 12 miles to rally retreating troops into a victory that became a legendary moment in American military history. He was one of Grant's most trusted subordinates and played a key role at Five Forks and Appomattox.
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