Existing comment:
General George B. McClellan:
"I can do it all." -- George B. McClellan to Lincoln
"Little Mac"
In July 1861 -- days after the unexpected defeat of the Union Army at Bull Run near Manassas, Virginia -- Lincoln entrusted the Army of the Potomac to 35-year-old General George B. McClellan, a brilliant organizer dubbed "The Young Napoleon" by his admirers. At first, the appointment seemed inspired. The charismatic McClellan instilled confidence in troops still shaken from the humiliation of Bull Run.
McClellan would prove too cautious to be effective as a commander. He greatly overestimated the strength of enemy forces and spent monthly drilling troops rather than taking decisive action. After the Republicans sustained heavy losses in the November 1862 congressional elections, Lincoln relieved McClellan of his duty, replacing him with divisional commander Ambrose Burnside. |