Which Union General was known for being too cautious and was eventually fired by Lincoln?

The choice of Gen. George McClellan is supported by his historical reputation for being overly cautious during the Civil War. McClellan served as the commander of the Army of the Potomac and was known for his organized approach and ability to train troops; however, his hesitation to engage Confederate forces aggressively and decisively led to frustration among political leaders, particularly President Abraham Lincoln. McClellan often delayed attacks, which allowed Confederate forces to regroup and strengthen their positions, contributing to missed opportunities for Union victories.

Lincoln's frustration culminated in McClellan's removal from command in 1862 after the failure to pursue and defeat Confederate General Robert E. Lee after the Battle of Antietam, despite having a numerical advantage. This decision reflected Lincoln's need for a more aggressive leader to capitalize on opportunities in the war and ultimately played a significant role in the Union's strategy moving forward. The contrast in leadership styles among Union generals exemplified differing approaches to military engagement during the Civil War, and McClellan's cautiousness distinguished him, leading to his dismissal.