Lord Cornwallis was a British Army officer and colonial administrator known for his role during the American Revolutionary War. He is best remembered for his leadership in the Siege of Yorktown in 1781, where his surrender to the American and French forces marked a significant turning point in the war, ultimately leading to American independence. Later, Cornwallis served as the Governor-General of India from 1786 to 1793. During this time, he implemented important reforms in the administration and military, including the introduction of the Permanent Settlement, which aimed to stabilize land revenue collection and improve relations with local landowners.