Born February 4, 1824
Montgomery Square, Pennsylvania
Died February 9, 1886
Governors Island, New York

Union general known as "the Superb"

Became a hero during the Battle of Gettysburg

"Hancock was superb!"

Union general George McClellan

Winfield Scott Hancock. (Courtesy of the Brady National Photographic Art Gallery, Library of Congress.)

Winfield Scott Hancock was one of the most efficient and successful corps commanders in the Union Army. His bravery, intelligence, quick decision-making, and professional attitude earned the respect of his troops and helped make him a war hero. Although he fought in many of the most important battles of the Civil War, Hancock is best known for his performance at the Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania in July 1863. He selected the site of this historic battle, set up the Union defenses, and helped turn back the full-scale Confederate attack on the final day of fighting. A career military...