Confederate Forces Seize Harpers Ferry
September 15th, 1862
September 15th, 1862
How Long Ago?
162 years, 6 months ago
Location
Harpers Ferry, Virginia
Category
Military & Warfare
War/Conflict
American Civil War
People
- Robert E. Lee
- Dixon S. Miles
Links & References
- Confederate States of America
- American Civil War
- Battle of Harpers Ferry
- Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
Tags
Confederate Forces Seize Harpers Ferry
Confederate forces captured Harpers Ferry, Virginia, on September 15, 1862, during the American Civil War. This strategic location was vital for both rail and river transportation, serving as a key position for the Union and Confederate armies. The capture involved a well-planned maneuver by General Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia, facing Union forces led by Colonel Dixon S. Miles. The surrender of the Union garrison resulted in the acquisition of considerable military supplies and enhanced morale for the Confederacy.
Harpers Ferry was key for transportation routes.
Confederate forces were led by Robert E. Lee.
Union troops surrendered due to being outnumbered.
Capture included vital military supplies.
What Happened?
The capture of Harpers Ferry was a pivotal moment in the Maryland Campaign during the American Civil War. Located at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, this town was not only strategically significant due to its geography but also because of its manufacturing capabilities and transportation links. Confederate General Robert E. Lee aimed to secure this location to strengthen his position against Union forces. In the days preceding the capture, Lee’s army moved towards Harpers Ferry, where Union Colonel Dixon S. Miles was tasked with the defense. Despite holding the advantage of terrain, the Union troops were vastly outnumbered and hampered by poor planning and lack of reinforcements. The Confederates, with their effective communication and divided assault strategy, overran the defenses on September 15, compelling Miles to surrender his forces. The capturing of this Union stronghold resulted in the Confederacy gaining a significant cache of arms, munitions, and supplies, bolstering their logistical capabilities.
Why Does it Matter?
The capture of Harpers Ferry is significant as it not only provided the Confederacy with critical resources but also represented a boost in confidence for Southern troops. This victory contributed to Lee's tactical repositioning and laid the groundwork for the invasion of the North, reflecting the broader challenges faced by the Union during the Maryland Campaign. Historically, it marked a turning point that influenced the subsequent engagements in the war.
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