Civil War History: The Battle of Bull Run

Today in 1861 the first major battle of the Civil War took place in Virginia, the Battle of Bull Run. Both the Union and the Confederacy had inexperienced, fledgling armies at this early start of the war, which resulted in numerous mishaps and severe casualties. This battle also set the tone of the war, showing it would be a long and bloody war. Primarily led by Brigadier General Irvin McDowell on the Union side and Brigadier General P.G.T. Beauregard leading the Confederate forces. Both sides were plagued by difficulties like poor communication and an inability to execute overly complex commands. After receiving reinforcements, the Confederates won the battle, forcing the Union soldiers into massive retreat. Although ultimately the South would lose the war, this is also a significant battle in that it is where Confederate Colonel Thomas J. Jackson would earn the moniker "Stonewall Jackson".