Confederate Armies & Departments in the Eastern Theater
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The Army of the Potomac under General Joseph E. Johnston pulled back from its position at Manassas to the Rappahannock River, abandoning millions of dollars of supplies and equipment. The retreat enraged President Davis, who was surprised by the move and outraged by the waste. |
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The Army of the Valley under Major General Thomas Jackson attacked Union forces on March 23 south of Winchester in the Battle of Kernstown. It was Jackson’s only defeat, but it caused Washington to divert tens of thousands of men from the Peninsula Campaign. |
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The Army of the Peninsula under the command of Major General John Magruder defended the eastern approaches to Richmond against the buildup of McClellan’s army, which had been transported by sea to Fort Monroe and began moving inland. |
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The Department of Norfolk under the command of Major General Benjamin Huger was responsible for the defence of North Carolina and Southern Virginia. |
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The Aquia District, commanded by Major General Theophilus H. Holmes, commanded troops along the Potomac near Aquia Landing, including the strategic city of Fredericksburg. On March 23 Holmes was transferred to command the Department of North Carolina and his place was taken by Major General Gustavus Smith. |