Sylvanus Thayer was superintendent of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, NY, from 1817 to 1833. Under his command was established West Point's tradition of academic excellence. Thayer insisted on regular study habits and a well-qualified faculty. He required every cadet to pass every course or make up any failure. During the first half of the 19th century, the academy emphasized civil engineering. West Point was established in 1802 at a Hudson River fortress, dating from the American Revolution.