Questions about Battle of Chancellorsville

Short answers, pulled from the story.

When did the Battle of Chancellorsville take place?

The Battle of Chancellorsville took place from April 30 to the 6th of May 1863. The campaign officially ended on May 7 when Stoneman's cavalry reached Union lines east of Richmond.

Who commanded the Confederate forces at the Battle of Chancellorsville?

General Robert E. Lee commanded the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia during the battle. He divided his force to attack Union troops while leaving a small portion behind to hold Fredericksburg.

What happened to General Thomas J. Jackson during the Battle of Chancellorsville?

Confederate General Thomas J. Jackson was accidentally shot by friendly fire from the 18th North Carolina Infantry on the night of May 2. His left arm was amputated and he died of pneumonia on May 10.

How many soldiers fought in the Battle of Chancellorsville?

Approximately 76,000 Union men faced 43,000 Confederates at the front of the battle. The Union army included the I Corps under Reynolds and the XI Corps under Howard.

Why did General Robert E. Lee divide his army at the Battle of Chancellorsville?

Lee decided to violate accepted principles of war by dividing his force to defeat a portion of Hooker's army before it could fully concentrate against him. This strategy allowed him to send most of his army to meet the challenge from Chancellorsville while leaving a small force to guard Fredericksburg.