Antietam was one of the critical battles of the American Civil War. The fortunes of the South were riding high after the victory at Second Manassas. While Bragg and Kirby Smith invaded Kentucky, Lee's invasion of Maryland was intended to maintain the Southern offensive momentum and to win the recognition of the European powers. But his bold plan was compromised and at the Antietam River the Army of Northern Virginia was fighting for its very life. This title examines the build-up to Hooker's attack, and details the famous clashes at Bloody Lane and Burnside Bridge--Publisher's description.

Includes maps of: Invasion of Maryland, SEP 1862; Approaches to South Mountain, 13-14 SEP 1862; Crampton's Gap, 14 SEP 1862; Turner's Gap and Fox's Gap - the Battle of South Mountain, Morning to about 1400 hrs., 14 SEP 1862; Turner's Gap and Fox's Gap - the Battle of South Mountain, 1630 hrs., 14 SEP 1862; Antietam - the Initial Attack; Antietam - Bloody Lane; Antietam - Burnside Bridge; Antietam - Final Dispositions.

The campaign -- The opposing commanders -- The opposing armies -- Opposing plans, 17 September 1862 -- Antietam: Hooker's attack -- Antietam: Bloody Lane -- Antietam: Burnside Bridge -- Aftermath -- The battlefield today.