Earl Van Dorn was a Confederate general during the American Civil War, known for his leadership in several battles. Born on September 17, 1820, in Mississippi, he graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1842. Van Dorn initially served in the Mexican-American War before becoming a prominent figure in the Confederate Army. He is best remembered for his role in the Battle of Pea Ridge and his command in the Western Theater of the war. Van Dorn's military career was marked by both successes and controversies, and he was ultimately killed in 1863. His legacy remains a topic of interest in Civil War history.