Battle Of Nashville Essay

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The Battle of Nashville The Battle of Nashville, which took place on December 15-16, 1862 was a very influential battle that shaped the America known today. This battle took place in the South in Nashville Tennessee and was a very important location for the North to beat. Although the Battle of Nashville did not make a huge mark on history, it did impact the outcome of the Civil War. The Union victory ended the Confederate advance, which ultimately led to the abolishment of slavery, and developed strong leaders in the process. Prior to the Battle of Nashville were the Battle of Fort Henry and the Battle of Fort Donelson which were both important Union victories. The Battle of Nashville was the first state capital seized by the Union, and …show more content…

Thomas placed his troops defending supply locations, railroads, and bridges. Meanwhile, the Confederates were struggling to pull ahead with John B. Hood as their general, and they were “down 20,000 men,” (“Account”). This allowed hope for the Union. Later, Hood thought he would take his troops and attack the city. This, however, proved to be “not a realistic plan,” (“Account”). Thomas was prepared and placed soldiers in the location where Hood planned to attack. Although heavy ice storms paused any advancement, General Ulysses S. Grant sent telegrams to Thomas saying to “attack the enemy,” (“Account”). When the weather finally broke, Union forces, under the leadership of Thomas, had the Confederates right where they wanted them. The Union troops attacked and almost everything went according to General George H. Thomas’ plan. Meanwhile, Confederate troops were getting caught and attacked around every corner, and things were not looking good for General John B. Hood. The fierce battle continued through the night. When morning dawned, surprisingly many Union soldiers died, and people said, “a person could walk from the top of the hill to the bottom without touching the ground.” (“Account”), but later that day, Union troops made up for it causing General John B. Hood to resign. He said, “I beheld the first and only time a Confederate army abandon the field in confusion,” (“Knockout at Nashville”). By saying this, Hood guarantees no more surrenders by the Confederate armies. His action concluded the Battle of