There are many battles that took place during the American Civil War of varying lengths, sizes and impact. Here are the details of just a few of the conflicts that marked this significant event in US history.

First Battle of Bull Run

This battle has more than one name. In the north they call it the Battle of Bull Run while in the south it is called the Battle of Manassas. It took place on July 21 1861 in Virginia and it is considered to be the Civil War’s first major battle. The confederacy won. A further battle in the same area became known as the Second Battle of Bull Run

Battle of Shiloh

This battle took place over two days in April 1862 and was a win for Union forces. It took place in Tennessee. The win meant that the Union armies were able to move on through the Mississippi River Valley.

The Battle of Antietam

In the south this particular conflict was known as the Battle of Sharpsburg. It took place in 1862 on September 17 in Maryland. This battle saw the loss of more than 22,700 soldiers. General Lee withdrew the confederate forces which led to a Union victory, but the Union’s General McClennan decided not to pursue Lee when there was an opportunity to do so. It is thought if he had then the war might have been much shorter. However, in the aftermath of the fighting, President Lincoln was able to issue the Emancipation Proclamation.

The Battle of the Wilderness

This was the start of a number of battles that took place between General Grant of the Union and General Lee of the Confederacy. The battle took place from May 5-7 in 1864 but proved to be an inconclusive battle, hence further battles taking place.