The fighting in the southwestern sector of the Petersburg lines ends inconclusively, which by this time means Federal victory because the dwindling Confederate Army of Northern Virginia can no longer afford to just hold off the enemy.
Exploring the most important 55 months in American history
The fighting in the southwestern sector of the Petersburg lines ends inconclusively, which by this time means Federal victory because the dwindling Confederate Army of Northern Virginia can no longer afford to just hold off the enemy.
Fighting erupts south of Petersburg, Virginia, when Ulysses S. Grant looks to seize extend his Federal siege line and cut a key Confederate supply line.
President Abraham Lincoln and Secretary of State William H. Seward meet with three Confederate envoys to discuss a possible end to the war. Lincoln insists that no terms can be accepted without restoring the Union and ending slavery.
President Abraham Lincoln accepts a suggestion to meet with Confederate envoys in person to discuss possible peace, despite political opposition in the North.
Three Confederate emissaries cross the siege lines at Petersburg to meet with Federal officials and discuss a possible end to the war. President Lincoln sets terms for peace negotiations, emphasizing national authority and an end to slavery.
The controversial military career of Federal Major-General Benjamin F. Butler finally comes to an end.