Date of Birth: November 19, 1752
Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
Date of Death: February 13, 1818
Biography
George Rogers Clark was an American soldier and frontiersman who played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War. Born in Albemarle County, Virginia, Clark grew up in a family that valued education and military service. He is best known for his leadership during the Illinois Campaign, which significantly weakened British influence in the Northwest Territory. Clark’s most notable military achievement came in 1778-1779 when he led a small force of frontiersmen to capture British-held forts at Kaskaskia, Cahokia, and Vincennes. His daring winter march and surprise attack on Fort Sackville at Vincennes became legendary, earning him the nickname “Conqueror of the Old Northwest.” Despite his military successes, Clark struggled financially in later years. He did not receive the compensation he had hoped for from the U.S. government and spent much of his later life in debt. He moved to Indiana to live with his sister and died in 1818.
5 Interesting Facts about George Rogers Clark
1. George Rogers Clark was the older brother of William Clark, one of the leaders of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
2. He was only 25 years old when he led the Illinois Campaign that helped secure the Northwest Territory for the United States.
3. Clark was awarded a ceremonial sword by the state of Virginia in recognition of his military services.
4. He suffered a debilitating stroke in 1809, which led to the amputation of his leg.
5. Despite his financial struggles, Clark remained a respected figure and was eventually buried with full military honors.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from George Rogers Clark
1. “I knew that a retreat would ruin us all, and that I should gain nothing by it but disgrace.”
2. “Great things have been effected by a few men well conducted.”
3. “I am determined to make a desperate push for it; either to gain the whole or to lose all.”
4. “The greater part of our men were so overcome with joy that they behaved like madmen.”
5. “Our fate is in our own hands, and I trust we shall not fail.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
George Rogers Clark did not achieve significant net worth during his lifetime. He faced financial difficulties and died in debt.
Children
George Rogers Clark did not have any children.
Relevant Links
1. [George Rogers Clark – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Rogers_Clark
2. [George Rogers Clark – Biography](https://www.biography.com/military-figure/george-rogers-clark
3. [George Rogers Clark National Historical Park](https://www.nps.gov/gero/index.htm
4. [The American Revolution – George Rogers Clark](http://www.americanrevolution.org/clark.html