The Surrender Of The Army Of Northern Virginia: A Moment That Shaped America's History Forever

April 9, 1865, is a day that will forever be etched in the annals of American history. It was on this fateful day that Confederate General Robert E. Lee made the difficult decision to surrender the Army of Northern Virginia to Union forces, effectively marking the beginning of the end for the Confederate States of America. The significance of this surrender cannot be overstated, as it not only signaled the of the bloodiest conflict in American history, but also marked a turning point in the nation's unity and the ultimate abolition of slavery.

The Civil War was a brutal and devastating chapter in American history, pitting brother against brother, tearing families apart, and ravaging the once-united states. For four long and grueling years, the Confederate Army, led by General Lee, had valiantly fought to preserve their way of life and maintain their independence from the Union. Yet, despite their determination and steadfastness, the Army of Northern Virginia had been worn down by relentless Union attacks and dwindling resources. It was becoming increasingly apparent that victory was slipping further away with each passing day.

By early 1865, the Confederacy was in a dire state. Southern morale was low, and it had become clear to many Confederate leaders that the end was near. The Union, under the command of General Ulysses S. Grant, had steadily gained ground and momentum, effectively cornering General Lee and his army. With only a fraction of his once-mighty force remaining, Lee made the difficult decision to surrender.

Appomattox: The Surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia

by Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain(Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1362 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	19 pages

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Lee's surrender at Appomattox Court House, Virginia, represented not only the end of Confederate resistance in the East but also a significant turning point in American history. The bitter war, fought over issues of states' rights and slavery, had taken a heavy toll on the young nation. The surrender of Lee's army symbolized the beginning of the healing process and the long road to national reunification.

The consequences of the surrender were far-reaching. With the fall of the Army of Northern Virginia, other Confederate forces soon followed suit. The surrender effectively ended the Civil War and ushered in a new era for the United States. Slavery, which had been at the heart of the conflict, was soon to be abolished with the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment. The surrender also allowed for the reconstruction of the South and the restoration of the Union.

The surrender itself was a dignified affair, with General Grant extending generous terms to General Lee and his men. Officers were allowed to retain their sidearms, and soldiers were given food to sustain them on their long journeys home. The emphasis was placed on reconciliation rather than retribution, a gesture that would help heal the wounds of a divided nation.

The surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia was a moment that marked the end of one era and the beginning of another. It was a moment of reflection, remorse, and resolution. Although it took years for the wounds of the Civil War to fully heal, the surrender of Lee's army paved the way for a united, stronger nation, committed to the principles of freedom and equality for all.

Reflecting on that momentous day, it is important to remember the courageous soldiers who fought on both sides of the conflict. Their sacrifices were not in vain, as their actions helped shape the America we know today. The surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia remains a poignant reminder of the strength and resilience of the American people and serves as a testament to the power of unity in times of adversity.

As we continue to commemorate the events that unfolded on that historic day, let us not forget the lessons learned and the progress made. The surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia serves as a powerful reminder that even in the darkest of times, unity and reconciliation can prevail, and that the pursuit of a more perfect union will always be worth fighting for.

So let us honor the memory of those who fought and remember the significance of the surrender that changed the course of American history forever.

Appomattox: The Surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia

by Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain(Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1362 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	19 pages

FREE

Chamberlain’s poignant tale delves into one man’s first-hand account of the Battle of Appomattox Court House in April 1865.

In the midst of a brutal battle, Confederate Army General Robert E. Lee rallies his exhausted, injured troops against General Ulysses S. Grant’s Union Army. In close coordination with Grant, Major General Philip Sheridan sends orders to the Cavalry Corps to guide the troops up to Appomattox Station, confident that victory is imminent. As Sheridan and Grant’s troops square across the enemy’s front, the hour has come that will determine whether each soldier lives or dies.

Until a messenger arrives from General Lee with a single white towel, shaped into a flag, that has the potential to change everything.

Having agreed on a brief truce, soldiers from both sides who previously had only one order – to destroy their opponents – are conversing amicably. As the truce comes to an end and Lee is nowhere to be seen, the soldiers prepare to put aside their new found friendships and resume the destruction they are, by now, so accustomed to.

However, Lee and Grant soon arrive; after some discussion, Lee’s decision is made – his one chosen word will determine the course of this crucial moment in American history – surrender. As the troops unite with their opponents to laugh, share food and discuss the destruction that has dictated their existence for so long, they reflect on the lives of those who did not survive long enough to experience this miraculous moment. Finally, all troops lay down their weapons and face one another no longer as combatants, but as humans.

Filled with vivid imagery, expert-storytelling and profound thoughts on war and surrender, Chamberlain’s historical narrative will stay with you long after you have turned the final page.

Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain (1828-1914) was a college professor from Maine who volunteered for the Union Army in 1862. Awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions at Gettysburg, he ended the war a Brevet Major General. A Republican, after the war he entered politics, serving four consecutive terms of office as the Governor of Maine.