Cornwallis, often referred to in historical contexts, typically refers to Charles Cornwallis, a British Army officer and colonial administrator during the American Revolutionary War. He is best known for his role in the Siege of Yorktown in 1781, where his surrender to the American and French forces effectively ended the war. Cornwallis later served as Governor-General of India, where he implemented significant administrative reforms. His legacy is a complex mix of military leadership and colonial governance.