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Born/ Background Info
Born in New York to John and Mary Sheridan. He worked in a variety of stores as clerk before receiving an appointment to West Point in 1848. Arriving at the academy, Sheridan earned the nickname "Little Phil" due to his short stature (5'5"). -
Graduated West Point
He was suspended during his third year for engaging in a fight with classmate William R. Terrill. -
Promoted First Lieutenant
He was promoted for his service in the northwest- engagement in Yakima and Rogue River wars. -
Promoted to captain after outbreak of Civil War
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Battle of Chickamauga
On the final day of the battle, his men made a stand on Lytle Hill but were overwhelmed by Confederate forces under Lieutenant General James Longsteet. Retreating, Sheridan rallied his men after hearing that Major General George H. Thomas' XIV Corps was making a stand on the battlefield. -
Battle of Chattanooga
Following the arrival of Major General Ulysses S. Grant with reinforcements, Sheridan's division took part in the Battle of Chattanooga on November 23-25. On the 25th, Sheridan's men attacked the heights of Missionary Ridge. Though only ordered to advance part way up the ridge, they charged forward yelling "Remember Chickamauga" and broke the Confederate lines. -
Sheridan defeats General Jubal A. Early
He is defeated several times at Winchester, Fisher's Hill, and Cedar Creek. -
Battle of Sayler's Creek
Sheridan was able to cut off and capture nearly a quarter of Lee's army. Throwing his forces forward, Sheridan blocked Lee's escape and cornered him at Appomattox Courthouse where he surrendered on April 9. -
Battle of Perryville
Under orders not to provoke a major engagement, Sheridan pushed his men forward of the Union line to seize a water source between the armies. Though he withdrew, his actions led the Confederates to advance and open the battle. -
Battle of Stones River
Sheridan correctly anticipated a major Confederate assault on the Union line and shifted his division to meet it. -
Dead
Died from a heart attack.
