General John Floyd was a prominent military figure during the American Civil War. Born in 1806 in Virginia, he served as a Confederate general and was known for his leadership in various battles. Floyd initially held a political career, serving as the governor of Virginia before his military service. Floyd's military career included significant engagements in the western theater of the war. He commanded troops in the Battle of Fort Donelson and faced criticism for his strategic decisions. After the war, he returned to Virginia, where he lived until his death in 1863.