Fredericksburg

Definition

The Battle of Fredericksburg was a significant conflict fought from December 11 to December 15, 1862, during the American Civil War. This battle is notable for its high casualties and the decisive victory achieved by Confederate General Robert E. Lee over Union forces led by General Ambrose Burnside. The battle showcased the challenges faced by the Union Army and had a profound impact on military strategies and morale.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fredericksburg was one of the first major battles after President Lincoln appointed Ambrose Burnside as commander of the Army of the Potomac.
2. The Union forces faced severe difficulties due to poor planning and delays, which allowed Lee to fortify his position on Marye's Heights.
3. The battle resulted in approximately 18,000 Union casualties compared to around 5,000 Confederate casualties, highlighting the brutal nature of the conflict.
4. The outcome of Fredericksburg had a demoralizing effect on Union troops and supporters, leading to criticism of Burnside's leadership.
5. Fredericksburg marked a turning point in public perception of the war, illustrating the challenges and costs of achieving victory in the Civil War.

Review Questions

• How did the tactics employed by Robert E. Lee at Fredericksburg contribute to the Confederate victory?
  • Robert E. Lee's tactics at Fredericksburg were characterized by strong defensive positioning and effective use of terrain. He fortified Marye's Heights, which provided an advantageous vantage point over approaching Union forces. The Union's frontal assaults against well-entrenched Confederate positions resulted in devastating casualties, showcasing Lee's military acumen in leveraging his troops' advantages while exploiting Burnside's tactical errors.
• Discuss how the outcome of the Battle of Fredericksburg influenced public opinion regarding the war in the North.
  • The defeat at Fredericksburg significantly impacted Northern public opinion by highlighting the grim realities of warfare and casting doubt on Union leadership under Burnside. The high casualty rates without any substantial territorial gains fueled dissatisfaction and criticism among citizens and politicians alike. This battle underscored the growing awareness that the war would be longer and more brutal than initially anticipated, ultimately shifting expectations about military success and leadership.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of Fredericksburg on subsequent battles in the Civil War, particularly regarding leadership changes in the Union Army.
  • The Battle of Fredericksburg had lasting implications for Union military strategy and leadership. Following the defeat, President Lincoln recognized the need for more effective commanders and soon replaced Burnside with Joseph Hooker. This shift aimed to restore confidence within the Army of the Potomac and adopt new strategies moving forward. The lessons learned from Fredericksburg informed tactics in subsequent engagements such as Chancellorsville and Gettysburg, where adaptability and leadership became critical factors influencing outcomes in the ongoing Civil War.

Related terms

Battle of Antietam: Fought on September 17, 1862, it is known as the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, leading to a strategic victory for the Union and giving President Lincoln the opportunity to issue the Emancipation Proclamation.

Emancipation Proclamation: A presidential proclamation issued by Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863, declaring that all enslaved people in Confederate-held territory were to be set free.

Chancellorsville: A battle fought from April 30 to May 6, 1863, known for General Lee's remarkable victory over a larger Union army, demonstrating his tactical genius following the Confederate win at Fredericksburg.