The Battle of Stones River took place near Murfreesboro, Tennessee, and spanned three days from December 31, 1862, to January 2, 1863. The conflict was primarily between the Union's Army of the Cumberland, commanded by Major General William S. Rosecrans, and the Confederate Army of Tennessee, led by General Braxton Bragg. The engagement began with a surprise attack by Bragg's forces, aiming to crush the Union forces before they could consolidate their position. Despite initial Confederate successes, the Union troops managed to hold key positions, enduring fierce assaults and countering effectively. Rosecrans’s strategic decisions and the tenacity of the Union soldiers played a pivotal role in turning the tide during the conflict.

On January 2, 1863, the Confederate forces made one last attempt to break through the Union lines but were repulsed decisively. The battle concluded with a significant Union victory, with both sides suffering substantial casualties, totaling nearly 25,000 men combined. This victory bolstered Union morale in the Western Theater and secured greater control over the strategic rail and supply routes in the region. Rosecrans's success at Stones River was instrumental in continuing the Union's momentum following the disheartening losses at earlier battles, such as the Second Battle of Bull Run.

The aftermath of Stones River further entrenched the war in the Western Theater and set the stage for subsequent Union campaigns in the region. General Bragg's defeat led to questions regarding his leadership and decisions, ultimately resulting in changes in command for the Confederate forces. The battle is also notable for the increased use of entrenchments and artillery, reflecting the evolving nature of warfare during the Civil War.