General George Custer was a United States Army officer and cavalry commander during the American Civil War and the Indian Wars. Born on December 5, 1839, in New Rumley, Ohio, he graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1861. Custer quickly gained fame for his bravery and leadership, earning a reputation as a skilled cavalry officer. Custer is best known for his role in the Battle of Little Bighorn in 1876, where he led his troops against a coalition of Native American tribes. The battle ended in a significant defeat for Custer and his men, marking a pivotal moment in U.S. history regarding Native American relations. He died on June 25, 1876, during this conflict.