George Armstrong Custer

Profession: Union General

Nationality:

Biography: Although Custer graduated last in his class at West Point Military Academy, he quickly rose to prominence during the US Civil War. he became the protégé of Major General Alfred Pleasonton who appointed him Brigadier General just before the Battle of Gettysburg in 1863.

As a cavalry officer Custer was known for his aggressive charges. He was one of the officers present at Appomattox Court House to receive the Confederates surrender in April 1865.

In 1876 Custer was commissioned to lead an expedition against the Plains Indians, culminating in The Battle of Little Bighorn. Otherwise known as 'Custer's Last Stand', Custer and his forces were famously cut down to a man and defeated by a larger Indian coalition made up of Lakota and Cheyenne warriors.

Contemporary opinions characterised Custer's last battle as a grand self sacrifice but more recent opinion is divided and the events of that day remain controversial.

Born: December 5, 1839
Birthplace: New Rumley, Ohio, USA
Star Sign: Sagittarius

Died: June 25, 1876 (aged 36)
Cause of Death: Killed in battle