'Richmond National Battlefield Park, Virginia' Summary

This historical handbook meticulously chronicles the pivotal role Richmond, Virginia, played as the capital of the Confederacy during the American Civil War. It dissects the two significant campaigns waged against the city by Union forces: the Peninsula Campaign of 1862 and the final siege of 1864-1865. The book vividly portrays the battles fought within and around Richmond, emphasizing the strategic importance of the city and the immense military effort deployed by both sides. The narrative culminates with the fall of Richmond in April 1865, a pivotal moment that ushered in the final stages of the war and ultimately led to the Confederacy's surrender. The text is richly illustrated with maps and photographs, providing a visual complement to the historical narrative and enhancing the reader's understanding of the battlefield landscape.