Admiral William T. Sampson was a prominent figure in the United States Navy during the late 19th century. Born on February 9, 1840, he played a crucial role in the Spanish-American War, particularly noted for his leadership during the Battle of Santiago de Cuba in 1898, which led to a decisive victory for the U.S. Navy. Sampson graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1861 and served in various capacities throughout his career. He was known for his strategic thinking and was instrumental in modernizing naval tactics, contributing to the evolution of the U.S. Navy into a formidable force.