First Battle of Bull Run Flashcards

Study Notes

First Battle of Bull Run Overview

Occurred on July 21, 1861; marked the first major battle of the American Civil War.
Resulted in a significant Confederate victory, boosting Southern morale while startling the North into realizing the war's potential length.

Civil War Context

Fought between the Confederate States of America and the United States over states' rights and slavery from 1861 to 1865.
The Union comprised the northern states, while the Confederacy consisted of the southern states that seceded.

Key Figures and Commands

Commanding Confederate Officer: General P.G.T. Beauregard.
Commanding Union Officer: General Irvin McDowell.
General Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson earned his nickname during this battle.

Battle Dynamics

Initial surprise for the Confederates; they gave ground early on.
The battle began amid a crowd of spectators from Washington, eager to watch what they thought would be a quick conflict.
Both armies were comprised of inexperienced soldiers, contributing to chaos.

Tactical Movements

Approximately 22,000 Confederate troops advanced from Richmond under General Beauregard's command.
The Union, ordered by President Abraham Lincoln, was unprepared, leading to chaos and disorder.
General Johnston's timely arrival with 9,000 reinforcements swung momentum in favor of the Confederates.

Casualties and Aftermath

Union casualties totaled about 3,000, while the Confederacy suffered around 2,000.
The battle ended with the Union troops' retreat, creating a panic on the roads as they fled from advancing Confederate forces.

Communication and Intelligence

The telegraph, invented by Samuel Morse, played a role in military communications during the war.
Confederate spy Mrs. Rose O'Neal Greenhow alerted General Beauregard about Union troop movements.

Cultural Impact

Civilians treated the battle like a spectator event, bringing picnic supplies to watch the engagement.
The shared belief in a brief six-month conflict was shattered by the battle's reality, indicating a protracted war ahead.

Summary of Key Points

The battle highlighted the unpreparedness and inexperience of both armies.
It was a pivotal moment in the Civil War, altering perceptions and strategies for both sides.
It underscored the reality of warfare, involving not just soldiers but also civilians interested in the spectacle of battle.

Description

Explore key concepts related to the First Battle of Bull Run through flashcards that enhance your understanding of this pivotal Civil War event. Learn about the battle's significance, its impact on morale, and the context of the Civil War itself. Perfect for students and history enthusiasts alike.