Why the Union's massive 1862 attempt to capture Richmond ultimately failed
In short: The Peninsula Campaign was a major Union offensive intended to end the American Civil War quickly by seizing the Confederate capital. This video examines why the operation, led by Major General George B. McClellan, stalled and eventually retreated despite the North's significant resources.
Launched in April 1862, the Peninsula Campaign saw 100,000 Federal troops land at Fort Monroe to advance on Richmond via the peninsula between the York and James rivers. The effort followed the March 9 naval clash between the ironclads Monitor and Merrimack at Hampton Roads.
The campaign progressed through the indecisive Battle of Seven Pines on May 31–June 1, where Confederate General Joseph E. Johnston was wounded and replaced by Robert E. Lee. After three weeks of inactivity, Lee launched the Seven Days’ Battles from June 25 to July 1, successfully forcing the Union Army of the Potomac to withdraw.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Peninsula Campaign - Why the American Civil War Wasn't Won Quickly
- Also: Peninsular Campaign | Union Army, Confederate Army & Virginia | Britannica
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