What Happened This Year 1864
Historical Events from This Year 1864
John Bell Hood Evacuates Atlanta
Confederate General John Bell Hood issued an order to evacuate Atlanta, Georgia, marking a significant shift in military strategy during the American Civil War. The city had been under siege by Union General William Tecumseh Sherman for four months, leading to extensive destruction and loss of resources for the Confederate Army. Hood's decision aimed to preserve his troops and retreat southward, recognizing the untenable situation in the city. This move was an attempt to fight another day and preserve his remaining forces for future engagements.
Continue ReadingUnion Forces Capture Atlanta from Confederates
Union forces under General William Tecumseh Sherman entered Atlanta after the retreat of Confederate defenders, marking a significant turning point in the Atlanta Campaign. The capture of Atlanta was pivotal for the Union as it provided a critical supply line for further military operations in the South. This event showcased Sherman's military strategy and determination, ultimately contributing to the weakening of the Confederate war effort.
Continue ReadingUnion Forces Evacuate Atlanta under Sherman
Union General William Tecumseh Sherman ordered the evacuation of Atlanta as Confederate forces advanced. This strategic move facilitated Sherman's famous 'March to the Sea,' aimed at crippling the Southern war effort. The evacuation marked a turning point in the campaign, showcasing Sherman's strategy of total war against Confederate resources while bolstering Union morale.
Continue ReadingHood Initiates Franklin–Nashville Campaign
John Bell Hood launched the Franklin–Nashville Campaign in September 1864, aiming to provoke Union General William Tecumseh Sherman into diverting forces from Georgia. Hood sought to regain territory in Tennessee and undermine Sherman's military strategy by threatening federal supply lines. The campaign represented the Confederate Army of Tennessee's desperate attempt to seize the initiative in a deteriorating situation following losses in previous battles.
Continue ReadingUnion Victory at the Battle of Cedar Creek
Union troops under General Philip Sheridan achieved a decisive victory against Confederate forces led by General Jubal Early in the Shenandoah Valley. Engaging over 50,000 soldiers, the Battle of Cedar Creek became the largest confrontation in this strategically significant region. Sheridan’s forces executed a surprise attack that turned the tide of battle, bolstered Union morale, and secured vital supply lines. The Union victory marked a turning point in the Shenandoah Valley Campaign of the Civil War.
Continue ReadingUnion Forces Engage at Chaffin's Farm
Union forces launched an assault on Confederate positions at Chaffin’s Farm, located north of Richmond, Virginia, during the American Civil War. This confrontation stemmed from the broader context of the Union’s strategy to capture Richmond, the Confederate capital. The Union troops faced strong resistance from well-entrenched Confederate defenders, leading to significant casualties on both sides. Notably, the battle marked the first significant involvement of African American troops in attacks against entrenched positions, highlighting their crucial role in the Union Army. Despite the fierce fighting, the Union was unable to secure a decisive victory at this location.
Continue ReadingTreaty of Lisbon Resolves Spain-Portugal Borders
The Treaty of Lisbon established the definitive boundaries between Spain and Portugal, concluding long-standing territorial disputes. One significant outcome of the treaty was the abolition of Couto Misto, a microstate located at the convergence of both nations. The treaty's negotiation involved high-level representatives from both countries, signaling a commitment to diplomatic resolutions over territorial conflicts.
Continue ReadingConfederate Victory at Saltville, Virginia
A brutal encounter unfolded when Confederate forces defeated Union troops attempting to capture Saltville, Virginia. This confrontation was part of the larger dynamic of the Civil War, highlighting the ongoing struggle for control in the region. Following the battle, wounded Union soldiers were tragically killed by Confederate troops, raising significant moral questions and contributing to the animosity between the two sides.
Continue ReadingUS Navy Captures Confederate Raider in Brazil
In October 1864, the USS Wachusett, a Union Navy vessel, captured the Confederate raider CSS Florida in the Brazilian port of Bahia. The confrontation arose due to the ongoing war, as the Florida had been a thorn in the Union's side, disrupting trade and raiding Union merchant ships. The ship's captain, Charles Morris, ordered the arrest of the Florida while it was anchored, highlighting the international dimensions of the conflict, as Brazil was a neutral nation. The capture underscored the extensive reach of the Union Navy in its efforts to suppress Confederate maritime operations.
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