Ameircan Civil War Timeline

Battle of Bull Run

Jul 21, 1861

This was the first major battle of the Civil War. Led by Jeb Stuart, the Confederates had the Union in retreat.

Battle of Shiloh

Apr 6, 1862

The Union forces launched a suprise attack on the Confederate army. The Confederates eventually fell back, resulting in a Union victory.

Second Battle of Bull Run

Aug 29, 1862

The second Battle of Bull Run was a decisive victory for the Confederacy. It cemented Lee as a brilliant general.

Battle of Antietam

Sep 17, 1862

The Battle of Antietam is known as one of bloodiest days in American History. While the Union declare a victory, most think it a stalemate due to the death toll.

Battle of Fredericksburg

Dec 11, 1862

With a chance to advance and capture Richmond, Lee crushed the Union. The Union suffered over 12,000 deaths while the Confederacy only had 6,000.

Battle of Stones River.

Dec 31, 1862

The Union barley defeated the Rebels. But it was important because it boosted moral in the North.

Battle of Chancellorsville

Apr 30, 1863

Thought a huge victory in which the Confederates fought off the Union forces, it came at a cost. Stonewall Jackson was mortally wounded.

Battle of Vicksburg

May 18, 1863

The Battle of Vicksburg was part of the Anaconda plan. In a decisive victory, the Union divided the South by taking control of the Missisippi River.

Battle of Gettysburg

Jul 1, 1863

The Confederate general Robert E Lee hoped to end the war by invading the North failed at Gettysburg. This proved that Lee could be defeated and was the turning point in the war.

Battle of Chickamauga

Sep 18, 1863

The second most lethal battle in the civil war in which the Confederates outnumbered the Union. The Union won anyway.

Battle of Chattanooga

Nov 23, 1863

During a series of battles around Missionary Ridge and Lookout Mountain the Union defeated the Confederacy. This was important because Chattanooga was an important railroad junction for the South.

Battle of the Wilderness

May 5, 1864

Though it ended in a draw, the casualties will disagree. The Union had over 17,500 deaths and the Rebels had 7,000.

Battle of Spotsylvania Courthouse

May 8, 1864

Both sides declare victory in a bloody affair. The Union had less casualties but the Rebels hold the Union.

Battle of Cold Harbor

May 31, 1864

With 18,000 dead, missing, or wounded the Union failed to penetrate the Confederate defenses. The Confederates prevented the Union from reaching Richmond.

Battle of Atlanta

Aug 22, 1864

One of the most important Union victories with the capture of Atlanta. William Tecumseh Sherman led the Union to victory.