Forrest, Nathan Bedford (1821-1877), was a Confederate general in the American Civil War. He was a brilliant cavalry leader. He enlisted as a private in the Confederate Army in June 1861 and became a lieutenant colonel in command of a battalion of cavalry by October. Forrest had no military education. However, he achieved amazing success as a strategist and tactician. When asked the secret of his military victories, Forrest is said to have replied, "To get there first with the most men."