Arthur St. Clair (March 23, 1737 [O.S.

1736]– August 31, 1818) is an American soldier and politician.

Born in Scotland, he serves in the British Army during the French and Indian War before settling in Pennsylvania, where he holds local office.

During the American Revolutionary War, he rises to the rank of major general in the Continental Army, but loses his command after a controversial retreat.

After the war, he is elected to the Confederation Congress, where he serves a term as president and is appointed governor of the Northwest Territory.

Disputes with Native Americans over land treaties result in the Northwest Indian War.

In 1791, General St. Clair leads an expedition against the natives that results in the worst defeat the United States Army will ever suffer at the hands of Native Americans.

Although an investigation exonerates him, St. Clair resigns his army commission.

He continues to serve as territorial governor until 1802, when he retires to Pennsylvania.

Although once very wealthy, he dies in poverty.