Confederate Army's Defeat at Battle of Franklin
November 30th, 1864
November 30th, 1864

How Long Ago?
160 years, 3 months, 15 days ago
Location
Franklin, Tennessee, USA
Category
Military & Warfare
War/Conflict
American Civil War
People
- John Bell Hood
- John Schofield
Links & References
- Confederate States of America
- American Civil War
- Union (American Civil War)
- John Schofield
- John Bell Hood
- Army of Tennessee
- Army of the Ohio
- Battle of Franklin
Tags
Confederate Army's Defeat at Battle of Franklin
In a fierce confrontation, the Confederate Army of Tennessee, led by General John Bell Hood, launched a direct assault on the Union Army of the Ohio, commanded by General John Schofield, in Franklin, Tennessee. The attack resulted in catastrophic casualties for the Confederates, marking a significant turning point in the Civil War. Hood's forces suffered heavy loss, with thousands falling in a short span, demonstrating the fatal impact of direct assaults against fortified positions. This bloody battle underscored the diminishing capabilities of the Confederate army in the face of the Union's strategic advantages.
Hood's assault targeted entrenched Union forces
Battle resulted in over 6,000 Confederate casualties
Strategic significance for Union control of Tennessee
Impact on morale and capabilities of Confederate forces
What Happened?
The Battle of Franklin took place in late November 1864, representing a critical moment in the American Civil War during the Tennessee Campaign. General John Bell Hood, commanding the Confederate Army of Tennessee, sought to gain ground against the Union forces led by General John Schofield, who had recently evacuated from Georgia after the notable Union victory at the Battle of Atlanta. Hood's strategy hinged on launching a bold offensive to disrupt Union supply lines and reclaim territory in Tennessee, aiming to shift the war's momentum in favor of the Confederacy.
On November 30, Hood initiated a frontal assault against heavily fortified Union positions. The Union army, well-entrenched in Franklin, possessed significant advantages in terms of positioning and defensive preparations. As Hood's troops advanced, they encountered intense artillery fire and rifle volleys from Union soldiers, resulting in severe Confederate casualties. Estimates indicate that Hood's forces suffered over 6,000 casualties, while Union losses were comparatively lower, at around 2,300. This battle not only highlighted the effectiveness of defensive tactics but also showcased the waning strength of the Confederate army as they increasingly relied on frontal assaults against fortified positions.
The aftermath of the Battle of Franklin had immediate and long-lasting implications for the Confederate military efforts in the South. Hood's severe losses weakened his army considerably, leading to a retreat towards Nashville. This defeat catalyzed further Union advances into the South, contributing to the eventual downfall of the Confederacy. The high casualty rate, particularly among experienced officers and men, marked a deep-seated blow to Confederate morale and effectiveness in subsequent engagements.
Why Does it Matter?
The Battle of Franklin stands as a pivotal moment that dramatically altered the trajectory of the Civil War. The heavy losses inflicted upon Hood's army served to reflect the futility of direct assaults against fortified defenses, reinforcing a shift in military tactics that would shape future engagements. The events at Franklin exemplified the Union's growing dominance and foreshadowed the final phases of the war, marking a crucial step towards the eventual Union victory. Additionally, the extensive casualties suffered had lasting impacts on communities and families throughout the South.
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