Second Battle of Saltville

SaltvilleBattlefield

Second Battle of Saltville was a significant military engagement during the American Civil War, occurring on December 20-21, 1864, in Saltville, Virginia. This battle was part of the larger conflict over control of the valuable saltworks in the area, which were crucial for preserving food for the Confederate army.

Background

Saltville, Virginia, was of strategic importance due to its saltworks, which were a vital resource for the Confederacy. Salt was essential for preserving meat for Confederate forces and the southern population. The first attempt to capture the saltworks by Union forces occurred in October 1864 but was repelled in the First Battle of Saltville.

Prelude

After the failure of the first assault, Union forces, under the command of General George Stoneman, launched a raid into Southwest Virginia with the objective of disrupting Confederate infrastructure. Stoneman's force included cavalry and mounted infantry, aiming to destroy the saltworks and other strategic targets such as railroads and mines.

The Battle

The Second Battle of Saltville began on December 20, 1864, when Union forces approached the defenses of Saltville. The Confederate defenders were under the command of General John C. Breckinridge, who had prepared for the Union assault by strengthening the fortifications around the saltworks.

The battle commenced with Union forces attempting to break through the Confederate defenses. Despite initial resistance, Union troops managed to penetrate the outer defenses on the first day of fighting. However, the Confederates held strong positions on the heights surrounding the saltworks.

On the second day, Union forces launched a renewed assault. Utilizing their superior numbers and artillery, they were able to overcome the Confederate positions and force a retreat. The Union victory was decisive, leading to the capture of the saltworks.

Aftermath

The capture of the Saltville saltworks dealt a significant blow to the Confederate war effort. The destruction of the saltworks by Union forces meant a severe reduction in the Confederacy's ability to preserve food. This loss, combined with other Union victories, further strained the Confederate supply lines in the final months of the Civil War.

The Second Battle of Saltville was notable not only for its strategic impact but also for the allegations of war crimes committed by Confederate forces against African American Union soldiers captured during the battle. These allegations were investigated after the war, adding a somber note to the Union victory.

Legacy

The Second Battle of Saltville is remembered as a key moment in the Union's efforts to undermine the Confederate war effort by targeting its infrastructure. The battle is commemorated in Saltville, Virginia, where historical markers and sites preserve the memory of this engagement and its significance in the American Civil War.

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