Commodore George Dewey was a 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. His decisive actions in Manila helped establish the U.S. as a significant naval power. Dewey's success at Manila Bay led to his promotion to Admiral and made him a national hero. He played a crucial role in the U.S. military's expansion into the Pacific, influencing future naval strategies. His legacy is often associated with the rise of American imperialism and the subsequent events in the Philippines.