Confederate States Army

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Flag of the Confederate States Army

Active	1861–1865
Disbanded
Country	Confederate States of America
Allegiance	Confederate States of America
Branch
Type	Army
Role	Land warfare
Size	1,082,119 total served
Part of
Garrison/HQ	Richmond, Virginia

Military unit

The Confederate States Army was the military land force of the Confederate States of America (CSA) during the American Civil War (1861–1865). It was established in 1861 to defend the seceding Southern states from the Union forces of the United States Army.

Formation and Organization

The Confederate States Army was formed in February 1861, shortly after the secession of seven Southern states from the Union. The initial organization was based on the existing state militias, which were then consolidated into a national army. The Confederate Congress authorized the enlistment of 100,000 volunteers for a period of 12 months.

The army was organized into several departments, each responsible for a specific geographic area. The main field armies included the Army of Northern Virginia, the Army of Tennessee, and the Army of Mississippi.

Leadership

The Confederate Army was led by several prominent generals, the most notable being Robert E. Lee, who commanded the Army of Northern Virginia. Other key figures included Stonewall Jackson, James Longstreet, and J.E.B. Stuart. The President of the Confederate States, Jefferson Davis, also played a significant role in military strategy and decision-making.

Strategy and Tactics

The Confederate Army employed a defensive strategy, aiming to protect its territory from Union advances. However, it also launched several offensive campaigns, such as the Maryland Campaign and the Gettysburg Campaign. The army relied heavily on its cavalry for reconnaissance and raids, and its infantry was known for its aggressive tactics in battle.

Challenges

The Confederate Army faced numerous challenges, including a lack of industrial infrastructure, limited resources, and a smaller population compared to the Union. These factors contributed to difficulties in supplying and equipping the troops. Additionally, internal divisions and state loyalties sometimes hindered the effectiveness of the Confederate military efforts.

Decline and Surrender

As the war progressed, the Confederate Army suffered from increasing attrition and desertion. The fall of key cities such as Vicksburg and Atlanta further weakened the Confederate war effort. The army's decline culminated in the surrender of Robert E. Lee at Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865, effectively ending the Confederate resistance.

Legacy

The Confederate States Army is remembered for its role in the American Civil War and its impact on American history. The army's legacy is complex, intertwined with issues of slavery, states' rights, and regional identity. The memory of the Confederate Army continues to be a subject of debate and discussion in contemporary society.

Also see

• Confederate States of America
• American Civil War
• Robert E. Lee
• Union Army
• Jefferson Davis