Major General George Meade was a key Union commander during the American Civil War. He is best known for leading the Union Army to victory at the Battle of Gettysburg in July 1863, which marked a turning point in the war. Meade took command of the Army of the Potomac just days before this crucial battle, demonstrating strong leadership and strategic skills. Born on December 31, 1815, in Cadiz, Spain, Meade graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1835. Throughout the war, he played a significant role in various campaigns and battles, contributing to the overall success of the Union forces against the Confederacy. Meade continued to serve in the military after the war, eventually retiring in 1887.