Campaigns · New Madrid, Island No. 10, and Second Bull Run
John Pope was born on March 16, 1822, in Louisville, Kentucky. He grew up in Illinois, and entered West Point at the age 16. After graduating in 1842, he fought in the Mexican War, and was brevetted for gallantry. In July of 1861, after the Civil War began, Pope was appointed brigadier general of volunteers, and commanded the Army of the Mississippi in 1862. After capturing New Madrid, Missouri and Island No.
10, he was promoted to major general as of March 22, 1862. Although he was defeated at the Second Battle of Bull Run, he remained in control as he led his troops into the fortifications around Washington. Pope attributed the defeat to the poor performance of many of his officers, an opinion President Lincoln shared. Pope was sent to the West to take part in campaigns against Native Americans, where he remained in top positions of command until his retirement in 1886.
He became known as a commentator on frontier conditions and on conflicts with the Indians. Pope died in the Old Soldiers' and Sailors' Home in Sandusky, Ohio, on September 23, 1892.