The Battle of Antietam, a disastrous showdown between the Union and Confederacy that determined control over Maryland during the Civil War, took place on this day in 1862. The number of casualties totaled nearly 23,000, making it the bloodiest day of the war and of American history to date. It was a critical turning point in the war; the Union’s victory meant the imminent Emancipation Proclamation would be made from a position of strength, rather than appearing to be out of desperation. It also meant foreign powers were less interested in supporting the southern rebels.
Robert E. Lee’s Confederate troops entered Maryland as part of a two-pronged offensive with their counterparts in Kentucky, also aiming to replenish his army’s waning food supplies. Maryland had been a kind of swing state; initially the state’s population had been receptive to the South’s cause, but over time had become more supportive of the Union. Despite the chilly reception, the Confederates had the advantage of a competent commander, while the northern troops were led by George McLellan, who to this day is infamous for his poor managerial skills.
The Union’s win was not a rout; instead, it was more of a strategic draw. As the sun set, both sides held their ground. Eventually, the Confederate soldiers decided to cut their losses and retreat, handing the Union a nice PR victory despite the actual combat being close to a draw. Five days later, President Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation.
