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Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park Tour Roads
Georgia and Tennessee
THE BATTLE FOR CHATTANOOGA
By the beginning of the Civil War, Chattanooga had become a major rail center for the South, making it a valuable asset for the war effort. Recognizing the importance of Chattanooga, Union forces began to move against the city in early 1863, under the leadership of Maj. Gen. William S. Rosecrans. In response, Confederate Gen. Braxton Bragg established his troops in a defensive position south of the city.
The initial conflict occurred near Reeds Bridge, along Chickamauga Creek on 19 September 1863. On the second day of battle a strategic Union error resulted in a decisive victory for the South. Bragg was unable to keep the momentum of that victory, however, and his success was nullified at the Battle for Chattanooga less than two months later.
Union forces retreated to Chattanooga and the Confederates established themselves along the high ground encircling the city in preparation for their strategy of attrition. Bragg decided to starve Rosencrans and his men into submission. October brought relief for Northern troops as Union leadership changed hands, reinforcements arrived in the city, and a supply route was established for the troops in Chattanooga.
The balance of power began to shift. By late November, Union forces had gained enough strength to mount an offensive attack on the Confederate troops outside the city. The ensuing battle lasted from 23 November to 25 November as Union forces gained control of several strategic points in the areas of Lookout Mountain and Missionary Ridge. By the end of the month, the Confederate army was retreating into Georgia and Union troops secured the City of Chattanooga.
Crest Road was constructed along Missonary Ridge to link strategic points of interest, memorials and scenic vistas of the valley below. (CHCH) |
| Introduction | Acadia | Blue Ridge Parkway | Chickamauga and Chattanooga | Colonial Parkway | Generals Highway | George Washington Memorial Parkway | Great Smoky Mountains | Mount Rainier | Rock Creek and Potomac Parkway | Shenandoah's Skyline Drive | Southwest Circle Tour | Vicksburg | Yellowstone | Yosemite |
