The political and military dilemmas facing the Union and Confederate governments in the summer of 1862 powerfully influenced the direction of the Civil War. In this lecture, Thomas Clemens focuses on the issues that drove the campaign: Robert E. Lee's belief that a success in Maryland could win independence and international recognition for his nation; the horrific number of casualties on both sides; and the devastation of the local civilian population. Using maps to trace the routes of the opposing armies, Clemens weaves an engaging story, explaining both actions and their consequences in this important campaign. Requires overhead projector and screen. Adult and high school audiences
Thomas G. Clemens is Professor of History at Hagerstown Community College. He received his B.A. and M.A. in history from Salisbury State University and his Ph.D. from George Mason University. He is a Founding Member and President of Save Historic Antietam Foundation.