Question

Which of the following describes the outcome of the first Battle of Bull Run on July 21, 1861?

a. Confederate troops captured many sightseers who had come from Washington to view the battle. b. Union troops under General McDowell swept the Confederates, led by General Beauregard, from the field. c. Both armies fell into total confusion, and the fighting ended in chaos with many casualties. d. Union troops panicked during a Confederate counterattack and retreated to Washington.

Answer 1

Answer: D. Union troops panicked during a Confederate counterattack and retreated to Washington.

Explanation: On July 21, 1861, Union and Confederate armies clashed near Manassas Junction, Virginia. The engagement began when about 35,000 Union troops marched from the federal capital in Washington, D.C. to strike a Confederate force of 20,000 along a small river known as Bull Run. This battle cost some 3,000 Union casualties, compared with 1,750 for the Confederates. Its outcome sent northerners who had expected a quick, decisive victory reeling, and gave rejoicing southerners a false hope that they themselves could pull off a swift victory.