George Stoneman

George Stoneman Jr. was born on August 8, 1822, and became a prominent figure in American history as both a military officer and politician. He graduated from West Point in 1846 and dedicated thirty-six years of his life to the U.S. Army, participating in significant conflicts such as the Mexican–American War, the Yuma War, and the American Civil War.

In 1861, Stoneman achieved the rank of Brigadier General and took command of the Army of the Potomac's 3rd Infantry Corps, later leading the newly established cavalry corps. His leadership was put to the test during the Battle of Chancellorsville in 1863, where an ambitious maneuver to infiltrate enemy lines ended in failure, leading to criticism from his superior, Joseph Hooker, who sought to deflect blame for the Union's defeat.

Stoneman's military career included a notable episode when he was captured by Confederate forces while commanding cavalry under General William Tecumseh Sherman in Georgia, though he was soon exchanged. After the Civil War, he oversaw occupying troops in Memphis, Tennessee, where he played a crucial role in restoring order during the Memphis riots of 1866, utilizing federal troops to suppress the violence.

Eventually, Stoneman relocated to California, where he established an estate in the San Gabriel Valley. His political career culminated in his election as the 15th governor of California, a position he held from 1883 to 1887. Despite his contributions, he was not nominated for a second term.