Which battle is considered the turning point of the American Civil War?

The Battle of Gettysburg, fought from July 1 to July 3, 1863, is widely recognized as the turning point of the American Civil War for several significant reasons.

Firstly, this battle marked the largest clash of the war, with the Union Army, led by General George G. Meade, achieving a decisive victory over the Confederate Army under General Robert E. Lee. The defeat forced Lee to retreat back to Virginia, which greatly diminished the Confederate Army's offensive capabilities.

Secondly, the high casualties at Gettysburg (around 51,000 soldiers were killed, wounded, or missing) had a profound impact on the Confederate army's morale and their ability to fight in subsequent battles. It galvanized the Union's resolve and bolstered their morale, reinforcing the belief that they could win the war.

Additionally, the geographical and strategic significance of Gettysburg cannot be overstated. It disrupted Lee's invasion of the North and shifted the focus of the war back to the South. After this battle, the Union Army would maintain an offensive strategy that ultimately led to the capture of strategic locations and the eventual defeat of the Confederacy.

Thus, the combination of military, psychological, and strategic factors contributes to why the Battle of Gettysburg is considered