The Battle of Fort Stevens was a significant engagement during the American Civil War, taking place as Confederate General Jubal A. Early led his forces toward Washington, D.C., in July 1864. Early's army aimed to exploit what they perceived as a weakened Union defense and to create panic within the northern states. As his troops neared the capital, they initiated an assault on Fort Stevens, which was one of the critical fortifications designed to protect Washington from such incursions.

The Union forces were stationed at Fort Stevens under the command of Brigadier General Andrew A. Humphreys. They were tasked with defending the fortification and repelling Early's offensive. The fighting at Fort Stevens was fierce, with both sides experiencing various casualties. One of the most remarkable aspects of this battle was the presence of President Abraham Lincoln, who, despite the risks involved, visited the fort to observe the action firsthand. His visit was not only a show of support for Union troops but also an attempt to bolster morale during a challenging period for the Union.

After several hours of intense combat, the Confederate forces were eventually repelled, unable to breach the defenses of Fort Stevens. This defeat marked a turning point in Early's campaign, as he had hoped to sow fear in the Union and possibly negotiate for favorable terms. The failure to capture Washington reaffirmed the resolve of the Union and showcased the effectiveness of the fortifications around the capital. Furthermore, it served as a critical reminder of the threats that the Confederacy posed during the latter years of the Civil War, despite the Union's overall strategic advantages.