The Battle of Chancellorsville, which occurred from April 30 to May 6 in Virginia, is one of the most famous battles of the American Civil War. The Union Army of the Potomac, commanded by General Joseph Hooker, engaged the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia led by General Robert E. Lee. What made this battle extraordinary was Lee's audacious strategy of dividing his smaller forces to strike the much larger Union army, demonstrating his military genius. By launching a surprise flank attack against Hooker's right flank, Lee's troops, including notable leaders such as Stonewall Jackson, created confusion and routed Union soldiers. The battle ultimately resulted in devastating losses for the Union, with over 17,000 troops killed, wounded, or missing compared to around 13,000 for the Confederacy.The terrain of Chancellorsville played a crucial role in the dynamics of the battle as heavily wooded areas provided cover for Confederate maneuvers. After initial confrontations, Hooker mistakenly believed his forces were in a strong position, but Lee's daring tactics flipped the scenario. The 1,200 men Jackson rallied for his flanking movement were particularly effective, culminating in the Union's withdrawal and retreat towards Washington, D.C. This loss was a pivotal moment for both armies, affecting morale and shifting strategies in the ongoing conflict.