Horatio Gates

Profession: Military Leader

Nationality:

Biography: Originally a British soldier who fought in the War of the Austrian Succession, George Washington recommended Gates become the Adjutant General of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War.

In this he proved highly controversial, particularly for his defeat at Camden, which destroyed his military reputation. While he claimed credit for the victory at Saratoga in 1777, this remains a question of historical and contemporary controversy, and his involvement in the Conway Cabal, which aimed to remove Washington as commander-in-chief, was also highly controversial.

Born: July 26, 1727
Birthplace: Maldon, Essex, England
Star Sign: Leo

Died: April 10, 1806 (aged 78)