Cedar Mountain, Virginia

August 9, 1862

Historical Overview
Jackson faced Pope in early August and, on the 7th, saw the opportunity to strike Banks at Culpepper, Virginia, before the latter could be reinforced. Pope, however, ordered Banks to advance to Cedar Mountain, and the battle opened when Early’s and Taliaferro’s Confederate troops moved forward.
Hostile Union artillery on the ridge beyond the fields and Confederate guns were ordered into action. During the inconclusive artillery duel, Banks launched an all-out attack. Crawford’s men broke through a gap in the Confederate line and shattered the entire left flank. However, the support he looked for didn’t arrive, and his gallant advance halted.
The Union attack near the Crittenden House was also gaining ground until Jackson himself waded into the melee. Waving his sword and a battle flag, he rallied his troops. Jackson’s valor may have stemmed the Union advance, but A. P. Hill’s reinforcements won the day. His fresh troops moved forward all along the line and cleared the fields, forcing the Union back.
The stage is set, the battle lines are drawn, and you are in command. The rest is history.