Born: 31 December 1880 · Died: 16 October 1959 · Age: 78
American general and statesman who led the post-war recovery of Europe
Did you know?He is the only professional soldier in history to have been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his diplomatic efforts.
Quick facts
Date of birth31 December 1880
Date of death16 October 1959
Age at death78
NationalityAmerican
BirthplaceUniontown, United States
Occupationpolitician, diplomat, army officer
Editor's Take:
George Marshall built the American army that won the Second World War. He grew it from a small force to more than eight million soldiers. Churchill called him the organiser of victory. As Secretary of State he then proposed a huge aid programme to rebuild war-torn Europe. The Marshall Plan helped revive economies and strengthen democracy across the continent. A soldier remembered most for rebuilding is a rare thing. He insisted the plan be offered to all of Europe.
Key Milestones
1939: Becomes Army Chief of Staff
1947: Becomes Secretary of State
1948: The Marshall Plan begins
1953: Wins the Nobel Peace Prize
General of the Army George Catlett Marshall Jr. (31 December 1880 – 16 October 1959) was an American military officer and diplomat.
