The family survived the Civil War but was financially ruined in the depression of 1873. John worked on the family farm and, at age seventeen, began teaching at the local African-American school.

Graduated from North Missouri Normal School and briefly served as a teacher.

1882: Entered West Point Military Academy.

1886: Won position of cadet first captain in his senior year and graduated 30th in a class of 77 cadets and was commissioned in the calvary.

Earned the name "Blackjack" being the first lieutenant of the 10th Cavalry, becoming one of the first white officers to command an all-black regiment.

1890: participate in the last great Indian campaign: the Ghost Dance War.

In 1891, Lieutenant Pershing accepted a position at the University of Nebraska as Professor of Military Science and Tactic.

1898: Spanish-American War erupted, and Pershing returned to the 10th Cavalry, and the unit was sent to Cuba, where Pershing led his troops in the assault on San Juan Hill.

1903: Pershing directed the campaign at Lake Lanao in which he led troops through the jungle to an isolated location to disarm the Maciu Moros

August 27, 1915, Frances Pershing and her three daughters—aged eight, seven, and three died in a house fire and only Pershing's son Warren survived.

The first American general is known as a "great managerial commander" of the modern age.

Developed his views of military discipline and the role of commander while attending West Point Military Academy.

Pershing was well-respected but feared among his peers.

build an army almost from pretty much nothing and constructed the organizing, training, and supplying of an inexperienced force that numbered two million.

he was courageous, and bold in his campaigns.

he was fearless in his decision-making.