a Confederate commerce raider to capture a gold-laden Pacific Steamship Company vessel. His squadron continued to protect American lives and property in Mexico and became in the same mission in Peru, defending them from attack by either side both during the Spanish blockade during the Peruvian War with Spain. Later life After the Civil War ended in May 1865, Pearson's Pacific Squadron had to deal with the . Its captain, unaware of war's end, was attacking American whaling ships in the North Pacific as late as August 1865. From 1866 to 1869 the Pacific Squadron was split into North and South Pacific Squadrons. Pearson served as South Pacific Squadron's first commander, as rear admiral in command of the South Pacific Squadron being promoted to rear admiral on Retired List, July 25, 1866. His squadron continued to be involved in protecting American interests in Panama and the Pacific coast of South America due to the ongoing war by Peru, Ecuador and Chile with Spain. After being relieved of duty in the Pacific, he returned to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, where he died, July 1, 1867, at the age of 68. Notes 1799 births 1867 deaths Union Navy admirals People from Portsmouth, New Hampshire United States Navy admirals People of New Hampshire in the American Civil War George Fredrick Pearson Burials at Arlington National Cemetery