General George Smith Patton was a prominent American military leader during World War II. Born on November 11, 1885, he was known for his aggressive tactics and strong leadership style. Patton played a key role in several major battles, including the Battle of the Bulge and the North African Campaign, where he commanded the U.S. Third Army. Patton was also famous for his distinctive personality and controversial statements. He believed in rapid, offensive warfare and often pushed his troops to their limits. His contributions to the war effort earned him a reputation as one of the most effective generals in American history. Patton died in a car accident on December 21, 1945.