Winfield Scott Hancock was a prominent American military officer and politician during the 19th century. Born on February 14, 1824, he graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point and served in the Mexican-American War. Hancock gained fame as a Union general during the American Civil War, particularly for his leadership at the Battle of Gettysburg. After the war, Hancock pursued a political career and was the Democratic nominee for President in the 1880 election, although he lost to James A. Garfield. He continued to serve in various military roles until his death on February 9, 1886.