Exploring the most important 55 months in American history
Following his unsuccessful attempt to capture Fort Stevens, Jubal Early leads his Confederate Army of the Valley away from the outskirts of Washington and back into Maryland. Federals stage a feeble pursuit as concerns about leaving the capital vulnerable persist.
The Federal Army of the Potomac temporarily halts for the first time in over a month as Ulysses S. Grant prepares to embark on one of the riskiest maneuvers of the war.
John C. Breckinridge’s Confederates begin leaving the Shenandoah Valley after their victory at New Market. Franz Sigel is replaced by a brutal new Federal commander in the region, with orders to apply relentless pressure.
An official ceremony takes place at the White House, where Ulysses S. Grant formally receives his commission as lieutenant-general. Grant’s brief, humble acceptance speech and private strategy discussion with President Lincoln marks a significant shift in Federal military leadership.
The Lincoln administration initiates a third effort to capture eastern Texas, this time using the Red River as an invasion route. But not everyone in the Federal high command agrees with the strategy.
The Federal Army of the Potomac and the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia return to their respective camps, as George G. Meade waits to be removed from command.