Describe The Conditions During The Battle Of Bentonville

The Battle of Bentonville occurred toward the end of the Civil War in 1865, and was the last offensive action taken by the Confederates. The Union Army was on the offensive during this part of the campaign, with General Sherman’s Army continuing their success following the “March to the Sea”. MCDP 1 states, “The essence of war is a violent struggle between two hostile, independent, and irreconcilable wills, each trying to impose itself on the other.” This statement perfectly describes the conditions during the Battle of Bentonville between General Slocum (Union) and General Johnston (Confederate). The theory of war teaches that combat multipliers enable a combat force to bend the will of their opponent. The Union used speed and focus as combat multipliers to defend against the Confederate’s offensive attack. General Davis’ quick actions in forming the Union troops against General Hoke’s and General Mower’s offensive attack on General Johnston’s extreme left flank are perfect examples of how speed and focus were critical elements of the Union’s successful strategy.
General Slocum was not expecting a Confederate offensive attack. On March

On the afternoon of the third day of battle, General Mower set his men in motion for an offensive attack against General Johnston’s extreme left flank. This is thought to be the most important development of the day. General Mower took his men along the right of the Union forces and moved against General Johnston’s dismounted cavalry. With speed and focus he rapidly approached the road and bridge across Mill Creek, Johnston’s sole line of retreat. This caused General Johnston to pull General Taliaferro’s division from the Confederate right to oppose General Mower’s offensive. Although General Mower was ordered back to his original position, the damage to the Confederates was already