Charles Wilkes
Charles Wilkes | |
|---|---|
| Born | April 3, 1798 New York City, New York, U.S. |
| Died | February 8, 1877 (aged 78) Washington, D.C., U.S. |
| Resting place | Oak Hill Cemetery (originally) Arlington National Cemetery |
| Known for | |
| Military career | |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Branch | United States Navy |
| Years | 1818–1866 |
| Rank | Rear admiral |
| Commands | |
| Wars | American Civil War |
| Signature | |
Charles Wilkes (April 3, 1798 – February 8, 1877) was an American naval officer, ship's captain, and explorer. He led the first United States Exploring Expedition (1838–1842). During the American Civil War (1861-1865), he commanded USS San Jacinto during the Trent Affair incident in which he stopped a British Royal Mail ship and forcibly removed two Confederate diplomats, almost leading to war between the United States and United Kingdom.