​Craig Van Diesel

About the Battle of Antietam:

    The Battle of Antietam (also known as Battle of Sharpsburg) was a one day battle on September 17, 1862. (Antietam)  Although it was a one day battle it is known as being the bloodiest single day in American history with nearly 23,000 deaths. (Battle of Antietam)  The battle took place in Sharpsburg, Maryland.  The Union was led by General George McClellan, and the Confedereates were led by General Robert E. Lee. (Battle of Antietam) Robet E. Lee was trying to adnvance North, and George McCellan sent assaults to stop the confederates from advancing. (Battle of Antietam)  The battle was back and forth, but once Union forces had weakened the confederate troops enough, Lee decided to withdraw from the battle and he confederates retreated. (Battle of Antietam)  Even though the Union Army lost more soldiers, and the result seemed more like a draw, the Unions took it as a victory.  This "victory" gave Abraham Lincoln what he wanted to issue the Emancipation Proclamation. (Antietam)