George B. McClellan

Definition

George B. McClellan was a Union general during the American Civil War known for his cautious military strategy and unsuccessful Peninsula Campaign.

Analogy

Think of McClellan as an overly cautious driver who never speeds or takes risks on the road - while this might be safe, it also means he gets overtaken by others (in this case, Confederate forces) and doesn't reach his destination (victory in battles) quickly enough.

Related terms

Peninsula Campaign: A major Union operation launched in southeastern Virginia from March through July 1862, aimed at capturing Richmond but ended in failure due to McClellan's overcautious approach.

Battle of Antietam: The bloodiest single-day battle in American history fought on September 17, 1862; despite having superior numbers, McClellan failed to capitalize on his advantage leading to inconclusive results.

Abraham Lincoln: The president during Civil War who relieved McClellan from command twice due to his lack of aggression and inability to decisively defeat Confederate forces.