Van Dorn, Earl (1820–1863)

American soldier. As a major general of the Confederate cavalry, he was defeated at Pea Ridge, Arkansas (March 1862) and Corinth, Mississippi (October 1862); he retrieved his military reputation leading Confederate cavalry against Grant during the Vicksburg campaign (1862–63). A West Point graduate (1842), he saw considerable action fighting in the Mexican War, the Seminole War, and against the Indians (he was wounded four times in one engagement).

Van Dorn was born near Port Gibson, Mississippi. A civilian enemy – said to be a jealous husband – shot and killed Van Dorn as he sat working in his tent.