The Battle of Pittsburg Landing April 7, 1862 – Final and Victorious Charge of the Union Troops Under Major General Grant

Recapturing the field on the second day of the Battle of Shiloh.

The Battle of Shiloh, alternatively known as the Battle of Pittsburg Landing, took place on April 6th and 7th, 1862, on the banks of the Tennessee River. The Union Army of the Tennessee under Major General Ulysses S. Grant had penetrated deep into Tennessee but was surprised by the troops of the Confederate Army of the Mississippi while encamped near Pittsburg Landing. After initial rebel successes on the field of battle, the Union army was able to receive reinforcements and reverse the losses in a counterattack the next day.

This centerfold print was issued in the April 26th issue of Harper’s Weekly and shows the successful advance, supported by cavalry and artillery. Despite the army’s success in retaining their defensive positions, the casualties were immense – over 20,000 – and the Battle of Shiloh remains one of the bloodiest conflicts in American history.