One of the Union's bloodiest defeats throughout the war.
The Army of the Potomac under Burnside approached the Rappahannock from the north quickly, aiming to cross river at Fredericksburg and march on Richmond before Lee was able to block him. Pontoons took weeks to arrive, however, and by the time Burnside attempted his crossing, Lee was ready.

On the first day, Franklin's corps crossed south of the town under cover of artillery, but the Union right flank crossing behind the town itself were held for much of the day by Mississippian snipers in the buildings. On the second day Franklin attacked Jackson on the ridge forming the confederate right and a division under Meade actually broke through but reserves were never sent forward and Jacksons reserves counter-attacked throwing them back. On the Union right things went from bad to worse. Union divisions attacking Longstreet on Marye's Heights ran straight into a hail of fire from the heights and from a sunken road, fronted by a stone wall at the foot of the ridge. The result was carnage. Night brought an end to the bloodshed and after a truce the following day to bury the dead the Army of the Potomac withdrew.

Fredericksburg, Virginia, USA (USA)

American Confederate Forces

Number engaged :

75,000

Casualties :

4,576 (6.10%)

American Union Forces

Number engaged :

110,000

Casualties :

12,353 (11.23%)