Antietam National Battlefield (Maryland): This battlefield commemorates the Battle of Antietam, fought on September 17, 1862, which remains the bloodiest single-day battle in American history. The battle ended in a tactical draw, but it provided President Abraham Lincoln with the opportunity to issue the Emancipation Proclamation, changing the course of the Civil War.
Cowpens National Battlefield (South Carolina): The Battle of Cowpens, fought on January 17, 1781, was a decisive American victory in the Southern campaign of the American Revolutionary War. This battle showcased effective use of militia and Continental Army tactics, boosting Patriot morale and contributing to the eventual British surrender at Yorktown.
Fort Donelson National Battlefield (Tennessee): Site of the Battle of Fort Donelson, fought from February 11-16, 1862. The Union victory, led by General Ulysses S. Grant, secured control of the Cumberland River, opened the way for the Union’s advance into Tennessee, and earned Grant the nickname “Unconditional Surrender” Grant.
Fort Necessity National Battlefield (Pennsylvania): Commemorates the Battle of Fort Necessity, one of the first battles of the French and Indian War, fought on July 3, 1754. This early conflict marked the beginning of George Washington’s military career and set the stage for the larger struggle between Britain and France for control of North America.
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield (Georgia): The Battle of Kennesaw Mountain, part of the Atlanta Campaign, was fought on June 27, 1864. Despite a Confederate victory under General Joseph E. Johnston, Union forces under General William T. Sherman continued their advance towards Atlanta, eventually capturing the city and significantly impacting the outcome of the Civil War.
Manassas National Battlefield (Virginia): This battlefield commemorates the First and Second Battles of Manassas (or Bull Run), fought on July 21, 1861, and August 28-30, 1862. Both battles were significant Confederate victories, bolstering Southern morale and demonstrating that the war would be longer and more brutal than initially anticipated.
Monocacy National Battlefield (Maryland): The Battle of Monocacy, fought on July 9, 1864, is known as the “Battle That Saved Washington.” Although a Confederate victory, the battle delayed General Jubal Early’s forces long enough for Union reinforcements to arrive and defend the capital, preventing a Confederate assault on Washington, D.C.
Petersburg National Battlefield (Virginia): Site of the Siege of Petersburg, a series of battles from June 1864 to April 1865. The prolonged siege eventually led to the fall of Richmond, the Confederate capital, and contributed to General Robert E. Lee’s surrender at Appomattox Court House, effectively ending the Civil War.
Richmond National Battlefield (Virginia): This battlefield preserves sites of several battles around Richmond, the Confederate capital, including the Seven Days Battles in June and July 1862 and the 1864 Overland Campaign. Control of Richmond was vital for both the Union and the Confederacy due to its strategic importance.
Stones River National Battlefield (Tennessee): The Battle of Stones River, fought from December 31, 1862, to January 2, 1863, was a significant Union victory that boosted Northern morale and helped secure Middle Tennessee. The battle resulted in high casualties on both sides and had a lasting impact on the course of the Civil War.
Other National Battlefields:
River Raisin National Battlefield (Michigan): The Battle of Frenchtown, part of the War of 1812, fought in January 1813, resulted in a decisive British and Native American victory over American forces. The American defeat led to the “Remember the Raisin” rallying cry, motivating U.S. forces in subsequent engagements.
Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield (Missouri): The Battle of Wilson’s Creek, fought on August 10, 1861, was the first major battle west of the Mississippi River. A Confederate victory, it demonstrated the seriousness of the conflict in the Western Theater and marked the beginning of significant military engagements in Missouri.
Big Hole National Battlefield (Montana): The Battle of the Big Hole, part of the Nez Perce War, was fought on August 9-10, 1877. The battle was a significant conflict between the U.S. Army and the Nez Perce tribe, leading to heavy casualties on both sides and marking a pivotal moment in the Nez Perce’s flight to seek refuge in Canada.