Samuel Francis Du Pont was an American military officer and engineer, recognized for his significant contributions to the United States Navy and his pivotal role in the establishment of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Born on September 27, 1803, and deceased on June 23, 1865, Du Pont's career spanned across naval campaigns and expeditions, culminating in his work on the USS Monitor, the first ironclad warship of the U.S. Navy. His tenure as the Superintendent of the U.S. Military Academy from 1859 to 1861 further solidified his impact on military education and leadership.