|
|
.............. BIOGRAPHY ..............
|
Schuyler, Philip John (1733-1804) General: Born into an old and prominent family, Schuyler received an broad classical education, and began a political career in New York. He served in the French and Indian War, using his skills as an administrator upon which he would call during the Revolutionary War. Because of his military experience and his political influence, largely due to his and his wife's family connections, Congress appointed him a major-general. Schuyler commanded the Northern Department, but was criticized for arrogance by New Englander critics. They also blamed him for the defeat of the 1775 Canada expedition, and wanted to replace him with General Horatio Gates, who succeeded his command after the loss of Ticonderoga in 1777. Schuyler was cleared of responsibility, but his reputation was irrevocable damaged, although he was able to contribute to Benedict Arnold's victory at Valcour Island in 1776, the successful 1777 campaign against Burgoyne, and the financial support of the war. Schuyler retired from military service in 1779, but remained active in the war, as well as politics and Native American affairs. In 1780, Schuyler's daughter married Alexander Hamilton.
|
|
