American Civil War in pictures

Known as one of the worst Military Leaders In History… George Brinton McClellan was a major general for the Union during the American Civil War. He organized the famous Army of the Potomac and served briefly as the general-in-chief of the Union Army. Early in the war McClellan played an important role in raising a well-trained and organized army for the Union. Although McClellan was meticulous in his planning and preparations these characteristics may have hampered his ability to challenge aggressive opponents in a fast-moving battlefield environment. He chronically overestimated the strength of enemy units and was reluctant to apply principles of mass frequently leaving large portions of his army unengaged at decisive points.