the Battle of Stones River

"This army does not retreat." --General George Thomas

The Confederate 1862 "Heartland Campaign" into Kentucky was considered a defeat by both sides. In the south, Braxton Bragg became a figure of ridicule and resentment for his failure to deliver Kentucky or score a notable victory. In the north, General Buell was summarily sacked for his failure to pursue Bragg. Buell's replacement was the prudent William Rosecrans, who--after much prodding from Washington--launched a counter-offensive to drive Bragg from his winter quarters at Murfreesboro, Tennessee. On New Year's Eve the two armies met along Stones River.

Braxton Bragg (left) and William Rosecrans (right)

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