History of West Point

HIstory

George Washington has an idea for a military academy

1790

West Point was George Washington's idea. He wanted to put the academy in West Point, New York because he believed it was the most strategic place.

West Point was signed into legislation by Thomas Jefferson

1802

West Point Opens

March 16, 1802

Colonel Sylvanus Thayer is the superintendent

1817 - 1833

He introduced many education reforms that are still important to academy life.

West Point started to focus on a more military style curriculum

1850

West Point graduates commanded both sides during the Civil War

1861 - 1865

Two of these commanders were Robert E. Lee and Ulysses S. Grant.

"The class the stars fell on" Over 1/3 of the class became generals

1915

West Point opens its doors to African Americans

1950

Women were first admitted into West Point

1976

62 women graduated from the academy

1980

West Point is currently the oldest occupied military post in the United States

Present