What were the major battles of the Civil War?

The American Civil War, which took place from 1861 to 1865, was a significant conflict that shaped the history of the United States. Several major battles occurred during this war, each playing a crucial role in determining its outcome. Here are some of the most notable battles of the Civil War:

1. Battle of Gettysburg (July 1-3, 1863): Fought in Pennsylvania, this battle is considered a turning point in the war. The Union Army, led by General George G. Meade, successfully defended against General Robert E. Lee's Confederate Army, resulting in a significant loss for the Confederacy.

2. Battle of Antietam (September 17, 1862): Known as the bloodiest single day in American history, this battle took place in Maryland. Union forces, commanded by General George B. McClellan, clashed with General Lee's Confederate Army. Although the battle ended in a tactical draw, it provided a strategic victory for the Union as it halted Lee's advance into the North.

3. Battle of Bull Run (July 21, 1861 & August 28-30, 1862): Also known as the First and Second Battle of Manassas, these battles were fought in Virginia. The first battle resulted in a Confederate victory, while the second battle ended in a Union defeat. These battles highlighted the early challenges faced by both sides and demonstrated the long and difficult nature of the war.

4. Battle of Vicksburg (May 18 - July 4, 1863): This battle took place in Mississippi and was a crucial Union victory. General Ulysses S. Grant's forces laid siege to the Confederate stronghold of Vicksburg, eventually leading to its surrender. The Union's control of the Mississippi River was a significant blow to the Confederacy, effectively splitting it in two.

5. Battle of Chancellorsville (April 30 - May 6, 1863): Fought in Virginia, this battle saw General Lee's Confederate Army defeat a larger Union force led by General Joseph Hooker. Despite suffering heavy casualties, Lee's victory boosted Confederate morale and showcased his tactical brilliance.

These battles, among many others, played a pivotal role in shaping the outcome of the American Civil War. They demonstrated the immense human cost of the conflict and highlighted the strategies and leadership of both Union and Confederate forces.