George B. McClellan

Date of Birth: December 3, 1826

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: October 29, 1885

Biography

George Brinton McClellan was an American soldier, civil engineer, railroad executive, and politician. Born to a prominent Philadelphia family, McClellan graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1846. He served with distinction during the Mexican-American War, and later worked as an engineer and executive for several railroads. In 1861, during the American Civil War, he was appointed as Major General and played a critical role in organizing the Army of the Potomac. Despite his organizational skills, McClellan’s cautious nature and reluctance to aggressively pursue Confederate forces led to friction with President Abraham Lincoln, culminating in his removal from command in late 1862. After the war, McClellan served as the Governor of New Jersey and made a brief foray into presidential politics, running unsuccessfully against Lincoln in the 1864 election. He passed away on October 29, 1885.

5 Interesting Facts about George B. McClellan

1. McClellan graduated second in his class at West Point.

2. He designed the “McClellan Saddle,” which was adopted by the U.S. Army and used for decades.

3. McClellan had a brief but notable career as a railroad executive before the Civil War.

4. He was known for his meticulous organizational skills, which greatly improved the efficiency of the Army of the Potomac.

5. After his military career, McClellan served as the Governor of New Jersey from 1878 to 1881.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from George B. McClellan

1. “If I cannot whip Bobbie Lee, I will be willing to go home.”

2. “All quiet along the Potomac.”

3. “There is many a boy here today who looks on war as all glory, but, boys, it is all hell.”

4. “The moment for action has arrived, and I know that I can trust in you to save our country.”

5. “The success of this army is the nation’s future.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

As a historical figure, precise net worth estimates are difficult to ascertain. McClellan’s highest net worth was likely achieved during his tenure as a railroad executive and his political career, but exact figures are not available.

Children

George B. McClellan had two children with his wife, Mary Ellen Marcy McClellan: 1. Mary McClellan (1861–1945) 2. George Brinton McClellan Jr. (1865–1940) – who went on to become a U.S. Representative and the 93rd Mayor of New York City.