Loading...

Famous American Military Leaders

Who were some famous American military leaders?

Goal:

Goal:

George Washington

General George Washington taking leave of the officers of his army, December 4, 1783, lithograph by Nathaniel Currier published 1848.

George Washington was not only a famous political leader, he was also a famous military leader. He is known for leading the Continental Army to victory during the Revolutionary War. This win helped ensure America's freedom from English rule.

Meriwether Lewis

Meriwether Lewis (1774-1809), co-leader of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Meriwether Lewis was a captain in the U.S. Army, and he was also an aide to Thomas Jefferson during Jefferson's presidency in 1801. Lewis and his former army officer, Clark, were asked by Jefferson to lead an expedition to explore new lands gained from the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. This expedition was the first journey from the East Coast to the West Coast by a U.S. citizen.

Route of the Lewis and Clark Expedition

clicker Click image to enlarge.

Henry Knox

Portrait of Henry Knox (1750-1806)

Henry Knox was the first United States secretary of war during George Washington's presidency in 1798. Before that, Knox was an officer in the army. As secretary of war, he was responsible for overseeing the nation's military activities and making sure the troops were ready if war broke out.