Battle of Antietam

Beginning of battle

Sep 17, 1862

This was the first battle fought on northern soil and know to be the bloodiest day of the civil war.

Morning Assault

Sep 17, 1862

McClellan mounted powerful assaults against Lee at millers cornfield and the west woods. This was the first assault of the battle.

Second Assault

Sep 17, 1862

Later during the day at the center of the battle field, the Union attempted to assault the confederates but with a great struggle and soon backed off.

Third Assault

Sep 17, 1862

After the two previous assaults the union then pushed the confederates back off the bridge at Antietam that they were trying to cross. This drove the army back and forced the confederate army to retreat.

Casualties

Apr 9, 1863

After the union pushed the confederate army back down the bridge they pulled out a victory. This battle was considered the bloodiest day in the civil war with over 22,000 losses.

Emancipation Proclamation

Jan 1, 1864

The retreat of the confederate army and the victory of the union gave President Lincoln the victory he needed before he issued the emancipation proclamation.