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The Army of Northern Virginia: A Formidable Force from the Potomac Crossing to Sharpsburg

Julio Cortázar

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Published in Their Maryland: The Army Of Northern Virginia From The Potomac Crossing To Sharpsburg In September 1862

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Prelude to the Campaign

As the American Civil War erupted, the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia emerged as a formidable force under the command of General Robert E. Lee. In September 1862, Lee's army embarked on a daring invasion of the North, aiming to seize the Union capital of Washington, D.C.

Their Maryland: The Army of Northern Virginia From the Potomac Crossing to Sharpsburg in September 1862

by Alexander B. Rossino

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Crossing the Potomac River

Lee's first objective was to cross the Potomac River, a strategic natural barrier separating Virginia from Maryland. On September 4th, 1862, the Army of Northern Virginia crossed the river at White's Ford, seizing a critical foothold in enemy territory.

The Battle of South Mountain

The Union Army under General George McClellan pursued Lee's forces into Maryland. On September 14th, 1862, the two armies clashed at South Mountain. Despite fierce resistance from the Union defenders, the Army of Northern Virginia prevailed, securing a vital pass through the formidable mountain range.

Battle Of South Mountain Their Maryland: The Army Of Northern Virginia From The Potomac Crossing To Sharpsburg In September 1862 — Confederate soldiers advancing during the Battle of South Mountain.

The Battle of Sharpsburg

The culmination of Lee's invasion came at the Battle of Sharpsburg on September 17th, 1862. McClellan's Union Army launched a series of assaults against the Confederate positions, but Lee's army held firm. The battle raged for hours, resulting in a bloody stalemate.

Battle Of Sharpsburg Their Maryland: The Army Of Northern Virginia From The Potomac Crossing To Sharpsburg In September 1862

Legacy of the Campaign

Although the Battle of Sharpsburg was tactically inconclusive, it had significant strategic consequences. Lee's invasion of the North was halted, and the Union Army gained a psychological boost. The battle also marked a turning point in the war, as it convinced European powers not to recognize the Confederacy.

Legacy Of The Army Of Northern Virginia Their Maryland: The Army Of Northern Virginia From The Potomac Crossing To Sharpsburg In September 1862 — The Army of Northern Virginia remains an iconic force in American history, known for its courage and resilience.

The Army of Northern Virginia played a pivotal role in the American Civil War, from its daring Potomac Crossing to its determined stand at Sharpsburg. Led by legendary generals like Lee and Stonewall Jackson, this Confederate army earned a place in history as one of the most formidable fighting forces of all time.

Their Maryland: The Army of Northern Virginia From the Potomac Crossing to Sharpsburg in September 1862

by Alexander B. Rossino

4.8 out of 5