RedCivilWar
Cadet
- Joined
- Jun 26, 2020
Hey CW historians! This is my first thread! Been a fan of the site for some time and definitely excited to engage in fun discussions with you all.
I've always wondered why Little Mac has been harshly critiqued by historians like Sears and McPherson for failing to destroy the Army of Northern Virginia at the Battle of Antietam/Sharpsburg, yet these same people give Grant a pass for failing to do the same at the Battle of Spotyslvania Court House.
I understand there are key differences between the two clashes, but there are similarities as well- both involved the Union being on the offensive and CSA on the defensive; both involved the Union outnumbering the Confederates nearly 2:1; both involved Bobby Lee rapidly moving troops between his flanks, and both are ultimately considered tactically-inconclusive/strategic victories for the Union.
Ironically, I've always thought that Spotsylvania was a prime example of why McClellan didn't fail at Antietam. Repeated attacks over several days by Grant didn't permanently break the Confederate lines, and this was with a more war-weary, demoralized CSA that was still recovering from the Battle of the Wilderness. Mac had to contend with an ANV that was still young and spurred by the success at 2nd Manassas.
Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!
I've always wondered why Little Mac has been harshly critiqued by historians like Sears and McPherson for failing to destroy the Army of Northern Virginia at the Battle of Antietam/Sharpsburg, yet these same people give Grant a pass for failing to do the same at the Battle of Spotyslvania Court House.
I understand there are key differences between the two clashes, but there are similarities as well- both involved the Union being on the offensive and CSA on the defensive; both involved the Union outnumbering the Confederates nearly 2:1; both involved Bobby Lee rapidly moving troops between his flanks, and both are ultimately considered tactically-inconclusive/strategic victories for the Union.
Ironically, I've always thought that Spotsylvania was a prime example of why McClellan didn't fail at Antietam. Repeated attacks over several days by Grant didn't permanently break the Confederate lines, and this was with a more war-weary, demoralized CSA that was still recovering from the Battle of the Wilderness. Mac had to contend with an ANV that was still young and spurred by the success at 2nd Manassas.
Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!