The most terrible battle of the war to-date begins as the Confederate Army of Mississippi swarms upon unsuspecting Federals in southwestern Tennessee.

Exploring the most important 55 months in American history
The most terrible battle of the war to-date begins as the Confederate Army of Mississippi swarms upon unsuspecting Federals in southwestern Tennessee.
The Confederate Army of Mississippi advances into southwestern Tennessee to confront Ulysses S. Grant’s Federals, who remain largely unaware of the enemy’s approach.
Federal advance deep into western Tennessee this month as Confederates gather in northern Mississippi to counterattack.
Federal forces advance into Tennessee following the fall of Fort Donelson and seize the first Confederate state capital of the war.
Confederates strengthen their defense line across Kentucky, as William T. Sherman gives his Federal superiors a gloomy report of affairs in the state.
Confederates form a defense line across Kentucky while Federals open recruitment efforts, thereby ensuring that turmoil in the state will continue.