George Armstrong Custer has always been recognized as a hero for his bravery during the Civil War and Indian wars. But, although he achieved great success during his short military life, he was doomed for failure. Custer was a fearless leader, and his life and those of his regiment that he led were ended by something that he should have feared: 2000 Indian warriors.
             George Custer aspired to being a soldier throughout his childhood. He received a nomination to WestPoint, and attended there, but his transition was not easy. His "carefree prankster lifestyle had to give way to the rigid discipline that the academy demanded." ("Custer Biography" www.garryowen.com/bio.htm) Although he thrived in athletics and horsemanship, academics slowed him. He graduated last in his class. But this apparently was not a test of his skill as soldier, for he quickly climbed the ranks as an officer in the Civil War. He became brigadier then major general, and was admired for his bravery and success. However, this is Custer's tragic flaw.
             Despite his heroism and fame, many felt that "Custer was overly proud and too sure of his abilities." (Dippie 956) He was only 23 years old in 1865, the year of his promotion to brigadier general. His youth served him well at times, but with youth comes inexperience, and this inexperience led to his early and astounding death. After the Civil War, Custer was returned to his rank of captain, and then was promoted to his permanent rank of lieutenant colonel. He was now assigned to join troops in the Dakota and Montana territories to fight Indians, and was once again given command of a regiment who would join him in his last, horrific campaign.
             Custer's regiment was sent into Montana to round up Sioux and Cheyenne Indians and move them to reservations. He split his men into three groups to enclose an Indian village on the
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