Winfield Scott
Brigadier General, U.S. Army
"I give it as my fixed opinion, that but for our graduated cadets, the war between the United States and Mexico might, and probably would, have lasted some four or five years."
Biography
Winfield Scott was the most talented American general produced by the War of 1812, and arguably the finest American soldier of the nineteenth century. Captured at Queenston Heights in 1812 while still a lieutenant colonel, he was exchanged and returned determined to professionalize the U.S. Army. At the Battle of Chippawa in July 1814, the brigade he had trained at Flint Hill appeared on the field in gray uniforms — the British commander mistook them for militia and was shocked when they stood and fought like regulars. 'Those are Regulars, by God!' is the remark attributed to the British general. Scott was severely wounded at Lundy's Lane but recovered, going on to command in the Mexican War, remain general-in-chief through the Civil War's opening, and be offered command of the Union Army before age and ill health forced his retirement.
Did you know?
Scott served as a senior military officer for an astonishing 53 years — from 1808 to 1861 — longer than any other general in American history. The gray uniforms West Point cadets still wear today honor the gray uniforms worn at the Battle of Chippawa.
Key Battles
Battle of Queenston Heights
Great Britain & Allies victoryOctober 13, 1812 · 1,096 total casualties
Though a British victory, Queenston Heights cost Britain its most capable commander in Canada. Brock's death removed the inspired leadership that had seized Detroit and rallied the colony. The battle also exposed the fatal weakness of the American reliance on militia — men who refused to fight outside their home territory.
Life Journey
Timeline
June 13, 1786
🌅 Birth
Born in Dinwiddie County, Virginia
October 13, 1812
event
Captured at Queenston Heights; later exchanged
July 5, 1814
⚔️ Battle
Trained brigade won Battle of Chippawa against British regulars
July 25, 1814
event
Severely wounded at Battle of Lundy's Lane
May 29, 1866
✝️ Death
Died at West Point, New York