Admiral George Dewey was a prominent United States naval officer best known for his victory at the Battle of Manila Bay during the Spanish-American War in 1898. Born on December 26, 1837, in Vermont, he graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1858 and served in various capacities throughout his career, including during the American Civil War. Dewey's decisive victory at Manila Bay led to the defeat of the Spanish fleet and significantly contributed to the United States' emergence as a global naval power. He was later promoted to Admiral and became a national hero, receiving numerous honors for his service, including a special promotion by Congress.