Battle of Glorieta Pass facts for kids
The Battle of Glorieta Pass was an important fight during the American Civil War. It happened in what is now New Mexico Territory on March 28, 1862. This battle was one of the farthest west battles of the entire war.
A small fight, called a skirmish, happened on March 26. This was between scouting groups from each army. The main battle took place two days later, on March 28. The Confederate soldiers managed to push the Union forces back through the pass. However, the Confederates had to retreat (fall back) when their supply train was destroyed. Most of their horses also ran away. Because of this, the Confederates eventually had to leave the territory. They returned to Texas.
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What Was the Battle of Glorieta Pass?
The Battle of Glorieta Pass was a key event in the American Civil War. It was part of the New Mexico Campaign. This was an effort by the Confederates to take over the New Mexico Territory. They also wanted to gain control of the gold and silver mines in Colorado. The battle took place in a narrow mountain pass. This pass was important for controlling travel and trade in the area.
Why Was Glorieta Pass Important?
Glorieta Pass was a vital route through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. It was the main way to get to Santa Fe and other important towns. Controlling this pass meant controlling access to the territory. It also meant controlling the roads that led to the gold fields of Colorado. Both sides knew how important this location was.
The Confederate Plan
The Confederates, led by General Henry Hopkins Sibley, wanted to capture the American Southwest. They hoped to get resources like gold and silver. These resources would help them pay for the war. They also wanted to create a new trade route to the Pacific Ocean. This would give them more power and wealth.
The Union Defense
The Union forces in New Mexico were led by Colonel Edward Canby. They knew the Confederates were coming. They prepared to defend the territory. The Union soldiers were made up of regular army troops and volunteers from New Mexico and Colorado.
The Skirmish at Apache Canyon
On March 26, 1862, the first clash happened. This was a small fight called a skirmish. It took place in Apache Canyon, near Glorieta Pass. Union scouts met Confederate soldiers. The Union troops pushed the Confederates back a short distance. This small victory gave the Union soldiers confidence. It also showed them where the main Confederate force was.
The Main Battle on March 28
The main battle happened on March 28. The Union forces, led by Colonel John P. Slough, attacked the Confederates. The fighting was fierce. Both sides fought hard for control of the pass. The Confederates managed to push the Union soldiers back. They thought they had won the battle.
The Turning Point: Supply Train Attack
While the main battle was happening, a small group of Union soldiers made a daring move. They went around the Confederate lines. They found the Confederate supply train. This train carried all the food, ammunition, and other supplies for the Confederate army. The Union soldiers attacked and destroyed the train. They also scattered or captured most of the Confederate horses.
Confederate Retreat
The destruction of their supply train was a huge blow to the Confederates. Without food, water, and ammunition, they could not continue their fight. Even though they had won the main battle, they had to retreat. They had no choice but to go back to Texas. This event is often called the "Gettysburg of the West." It stopped the Confederate plan to control the Southwest.
Aftermath of the Battle
The Battle of Glorieta Pass was a major victory for the Union. It ended the Confederate threat in New Mexico. The Confederates never again tried to take over the Southwest. This battle helped keep the western territories in the Union. It also showed the importance of supplies in war.
The Battle of Glorieta Pass: A Shattered Dream, National Park Service
Images for kids
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Action at Apache Canyon
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Glorieta Pass battlefield. This photograph was taken in 1990 from Sharpshooter's Ridge, just north of Pigeon's Ranch. It was the location of the Union right flank during the last day's battle.
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Battle of Glorieta Pass marker at the Cuerno Verde Rest Area, Colorado
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The battlefield in 2012
