Most Important Civil War Battles
by Rebecca Clopton
The Battle of Antietam
Confederate General: Robert E. Lee
Strategies: Confederate army planned to attack through the cornfield, split up and confuse the Union troops. Union planned to shoot at point-blank range, just shooting any and every Confederate soldier in sight.
This was the bloodiest one-day battle in American history, including over 21,000 casualties on September 17, 1862. Texas lost 80% of forces during this battle. The Battle of Antietam resulted in Union victory.
As a result of this battle, President Lincoln issued the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation on September 22, 1862.
The Battle of Gettysburg
Confederate General: Robert E. Lee
Strategies: Lee wanted to invade the North for a second time, though the Union was prepared for the attack by setting up defenses on the outskirts of Gettysburg.
The battle of Gettysburg was considered the most important engagement of the American Civil War. This battle resulted in Union victory, as the Union stopped Lee's second invasion of the north. Took place July 1-3rd 1863, same time as battle of Vicksburg. This victory corresponded with Grant's victory at Vicksburg on July 4th.
President Lincoln issued the famous Gettysburg Address on November 19, 1863, stating and quoting the Declaration of Independence, that "all men are created equal".
The Battle of Vicksburg
Confederate General: John C. Pemberton
Strategies: Both sides knew that this battle was nearly the final victory for the war, all they needed to do was win. "Anaconda Plan"
Grant ordered Sherman’s troops to attack along the Graveyard Road northeast of town. This was the second longest lasting battle of the Civil War, spanning from May 18 to July 4, 1863. The entire battle of Vicksburg resulted in about 35,000 casualties.
As a result of this battle, the Union had control of the Mississippi River, resulting in the South being split into two parts, western and eastern.