The Battle of Aldie occurred during the Gettysburg Campaign, a critical moment in the American Civil War. As Union and Confederate forces maneuvered through Virginia in the summer of 1863, both sides sought to control key routes for troop movement and supply lines. The skirmish involved Union cavalry under the command of Brigadier General Alfred Pleasonton, who was tasked with screening the Army of the Potomac’s movements and gathering intelligence on the Confederate forces led by General J.E.B. Stuart. The battle was characterized by rapid cavalry maneuvers and the use of artillery at strategic points. The outcome was unclear, with neither side achieving a clear victory, but it marked a necessary engagement that contributed to the larger strategic picture of the Gettysburg Campaign.As the battle unfolded, the terrain around Aldie presented several challenges, including steep hills and narrow passes, which were significant factors in the engagement’s tactics. Union forces attempted to outmaneuver Stuart's forces in a bid to disrupt their cavalry's operations. Although the encounter resulted in heavy skirmishing and reconnaissance, the Union cavalry ultimately managed to hold their ground, though they faced stiff resistance. The confrontation demonstrated the importance of cavalry in the Civil War, particularly during the shifts in momentum leading up to more sizable engagements such as the forthcoming Battle of Gettysburg. The skirmish at Aldie served to sharpen the tactics and preparedness of both forces as the campaign escalated over the following weeks.