Lecture Notes: The Battle of Shiloh

Introduction

• Significance: First major battle of the American Civil War.
• Comparison: More casualties than entire armies in previous American wars (Revolutionary War, War of 1812).
• Location: Part of Mississippi Valley campaign, largest battle fought here.

Pre-Battle Context

• Union Movement: Union forces arrived by March 1862 after victories at Forts Henry and Donelson.
• Confederate Strategy: Concentrating 22 miles southwest in Corinth, Mississippi to defend major railroads (Memphis & Charleston, Mobile & Ohio).
• Confederate Objective: March north to destroy Grant's army before Buell's Army of the Ohio arrives.

Battle Day 1 (April 6, 1862)

• Initial Conflict: First shots fired at Fry Field.
• Confederate Attack: Move forward to batter Union camps, sustain heavy casualties including Commander Albert Sydney Johnston.
• Union Defense: Forced back into defensive positions around Pittsburgh Landing and Snake Creek Bridge.
• Strategic Decision: Grant trades space for time, awaiting reinforcements.

Battle Day 2

• Reinforcements: L. Wallace’s division and Don Carlos Buell’s Army of the Ohio arrive.
• Union Offensive: Push out from defensive enclave, drive Confederates back.
• Key Battle Sites: Hornet's Nest, Peach Orchard, Crossroads.
• Confederate Retreat: Led by P.G.T. Beauregard after Johnston's death.

Impact on Ulysses S. Grant

• Controversy: Initially tarnished reputation post-battle; rumors of being drunk.
• Perseverance: Overcomes criticism, Shiloh becomes emblematic of his determination.
• Career Advancement: Shiloh pivotal in his rise; leads to further successes in Vicksburg, Chattanooga, Virginia campaigns, eventually presidency.

Conclusion

• Shiloh marked a decisive and strategically significant battle in the Civil War.
• Played a critical role in the military career of Ulysses S. Grant.