How Long Did the First Battle of Bull Run Last- Unraveling the Duration of This Pivotal Civil War Engagement

How Long Did the First Battle of Bull Run Last?

The First Battle of Bull Run, also known as the First Battle of Manassas, was a pivotal event in the American Civil War. One of the most significant early engagements of the war, it took place on July 21, 1861, near the town of Manassas, Virginia. The battle is often remembered for its unexpected outcome, with the Union forces suffering a stunning defeat at the hands of the Confederates. But how long did this historic battle actually last? Let’s delve into the details to find out.

The First Battle of Bull Run began in the early morning hours of July 21, 1861. As Union forces under the command of Brigadier General Irvin McDowell advanced towards the Confederate capital of Richmond, they encountered the Confederate forces led by General P.G.T. Beauregard and General Joseph E. Johnston. The battle raged on for approximately 11 hours, from around 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The initial phase of the battle saw the Union forces making significant progress, with their right wing advancing towards the Confederate center. However, as the day wore on, Confederate reinforcements arrived, and the tide began to turn. The Confederate forces, bolstered by their new arrivals, launched a series of counterattacks that pushed the Union forces back towards their starting positions.

The turning point of the battle came when Confederate General Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson’s Virginia troops held their ground against repeated Union assaults. Jackson’s famous remark, “They are mine, and I will hold them,” became a symbol of the Confederate resolve. As the day progressed, the Union forces were increasingly battered and disorganized, and the Confederate forces capitalized on this by launching a series of coordinated attacks.

By the end of the battle, the Union forces had been forced to retreat, marking the first major defeat for the Union Army. The battle had lasted approximately 11 hours, a testament to the fierce determination and sheer numbers involved in this early conflict of the Civil War.

The First Battle of Bull Run had a profound impact on the course of the American Civil War. It shattered the Union’s initial confidence and exposed the weaknesses of their military. On the other hand, it bolstered the Confederate morale and demonstrated the resolve of their troops. The battle served as a wake-up call for both sides, setting the stage for the intense and prolonged conflict that would follow. As for the duration of the battle, it lasted a grueling 11 hours, a pivotal moment in American history.