In the summer of 1861, both North and South brimmed with confidence that a single, glorious victory would end the conflict before it truly began. That decisive clash, everyone believed, would unfold at Manassas. As a result, every soldier worth his salt—and one remarkable woman—rushed to take part in what they imagined would be the war’s grand finale.

Among those who faced combat for the first time at First Bull Run on July 21, 1861 were names that would soon echo through history: Jefferson Davis, William Tecumseh Sherman, “Stonewall” Jackson, Ambrose Burnside, Joseph Johnston, J.E.B. Stuart, George Custer, and many others whose courage proved just as vital, though history often overlooks them.

Gene Schmiel will examine not only the famed leaders but also the lesser-known figures who found their footing—and their destiny—on that fateful field. Copies of Gene’s book, Civil War Baptism of Fire: First Battle of Bull Run, will be available for purchase.


LLI Coordinator: David Pace