Gideon Pillow

Gideon Johnson Pillow (1806–1878) was an American lawyer, politician, and soldier. His partner in his first law practice was future President James K. Polk. He served during the Mexican War. He joined the Confederate States Army shortly after the American Civil War. He is best remembered for his poor performance at the Battle of Fort Donelson, although the whole of Pillow's career was defined by his substantial ego and poor military skill.

Fort Pillow was named in his honor in 1861.