Exploring the most important 55 months in American history
165 YEARS AGO: Generals John B. Floyd and Henry A. Wise, both former Virginia governors, struggle to unite their divided forces against a Federal advance. Despite pressure from Robert E. Lee, Wise resists joining Floyd, resulting in ongoing disputes and operational delays.
165 YEARS AGO: George B. McClellan continues organizing his new Army of the Potomac and continues feuding with Winfield Scott.
165 YEARS AGO: Demoralized Federal troops begin a long retreat out of southwestern Missouri after their defeat at Wilson’s Creek.
OTD 165 YEARS AGO: Federals not only suffer a second major defeat within a month, but they lose an army commander as well.
165 YEARS AGO: Opposing forces inadvertently advance upon each other in southwestern Missouri, setting the stage for a battle.
165 YEARS AGO: Simon Cameron responds to Benjamin F. Butler’s request to clarify the Lincolns administration’s policy on fugitive slaves escaping into Federal military lines, one day after Confederates burned a refuge for escapees.