The First Battle of Bull Run, also known as the First Battle of Manassas, was fought on July 21, 1861, in Prince William County, Virginia. It was the first major land battle of the American Civil War and represented a critical early encounter between Union and Confederate forces. The Union Army, under the command of Brigadier General Irvin McDowell, sought to engage the Confederates and crush their resolve, believing that a swift victory would likely lead to the collapse of the Southern rebellion. Approximately 35,000 Union troops advanced toward Manassas, where they faced around 32,000 Confederate soldiers commanded by General Pierre G.T. Beauregard and General Joseph E. Johnston.As the battle unfolded, initial Union attacks made some gains against the Confederate defenses, which were positioned along a creek known as Bull Run. However, the Confederates managed to hold their ground, coordinating successful counterattacks and rallying under the aggressive leadership of various commanders. As the day progressed, Confederate reinforcements arrived, tipping the scales against the Union forces. The situation deteriorated for the North, leading to a panic-induced retreat that was exacerbated by the arrival of spectators who had come to watch the battle, believing it to be a spectacle rather than a serious conflict.The Confederate victory at Bull Run not only bolstered Southern morale but also dispelled the initial illusions in the North regarding a quick resolution to the war. It served as a harsh awakening for the Union, emphasizing the need for more serious preparation and strategic planning in the face of a determined Confederate enemy. This battle set the stage for a prolonged and bloody conflict that would last four more years.