Civil War Battles

First Battle of Bull Run

Jul 21, 1861

Confederates smash the Union forces, and even though the casualties were small, it made everyone realize this would be a long war.

Battle of Shiloh

Apr 6, 1862

Union army attempts to organize before attacking important Confederacy railroad hub. Confederacy go on attack before Union can become prepared. Union faces heavy casualties till reinforcements arrive and Confederate troops withdraw. 23,000 Casualties

Antietam or the Battle of Sharpsburg

Sep 17, 1862

Union gets Lee’s war plans. Union Army marches to confront his forces at Antietam Creek, in Northern Maryland. However General McClellans indecisiveness allows confederates time to get reinforcements. Ends in draw with 23,000 men killed.

Battle of Vicksburg

May 22, 1863

Union General Ulysses S. Grant leads army to Vicksburg, Mississippi where they lay siege on the town. In combination with Gettysburg, increased Union moral.

Gettysburg

Jul 1, 1863

Union and Confederate forces meet at the town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Confederates are unable to move Union forces and finally the Confederacy attempts Pickett’s Charge, they have 15,000 men charge the Union lines. And it worked but too many men had died during the charge. Combined 51,000 Casualties.