The Battle of Campbell's Station took place during the Knoxville Campaign of the American Civil War, occurring near the town of Campbell's Station, Tennessee. As General Ambrose Burnside's Union forces occupied this area, Confederate General James Longstreet sought to expel them to secure the strategic city of Knoxville. The battle began as Longstreet's troops attacked Union positions in an attempt to cut off Burnside's supply lines and reclaim dominance in East Tennessee. The action on November 16 showcased various combat elements, including infantry charges, artillery dueling, and the difficulties of communication and coordination between the forces.

The conflict was characterized by fierce hand-to-hand fighting, extensive maneuvers, and high stakes, with the Confederates aiming to dislodge the Union from its fortified positions. Despite initial advances, Union forces, benefiting from better fortifications and tactical planning, managed to repel the Confederate assaults. The fighting led to considerable casualties on both sides, impacting morale and logistics. Longstreet, facing increasingly difficult supply challenges, was compelled to withdraw, allowing Burnside to consolidate his hold over Knoxville and surrounding areas.

The aftermath of the battle strengthened Union control in East Tennessee, a rare area of Union loyalty during the war. It also underscored the difficulties Confederate forces faced when trying to operate far from their home territories. The event represented a setback for the Confederate strategy in the region and highlighted the importance of decisive and well-placed fortifications in Civil War battles.