Union infantry probes the Confederate defences.

After the success of the Seven Days Battle, General Lee decided to confront another threat to Richmond, that of the Army of Virginia under General Pope. He released his trusted General Stonewall Jackson to do just that.

Swiftly Genearal Jackson discovered that Pope had seperated his three Corps, and decided to fall upon the isolated Corps of Nathaniel P. Banks. They met at Cedar Mountain.

At first the Union army had the advantage, as an attack from Gen. Crawford nearly collapsed the Confederate left flank, as many Confederate units were routed.

The route was stopped by Gen. Jackson himself, and a counter-attack was put into place. The Union had to retreat, which forced the Union Army of Virginia on the defensive. The Battle of Cedar Mountain was a win for the South.

TIPS

At the beginning of the battle the Union has the advantage in terms of men and especially artillery. If you choose to launch an attack use your large brigades of Crawford and Gordon, with the cavalry of Bayard in support.

One thing you have to watch for is Early coming across the river and plowing into your left flank. Positioning a battery or two to cover the bridge can slow him down. And try to keep your smal brigades on your left out of the firing (although this is difficult to do).

As the Confederate player you have to exercise patience. You have a great superiority in men but they come onto the field later in the battle. Make sure your left flank does not get routed (as happened historically) and wait your time. Only when you have most of your men on board should you send them into attack.

This includes Early. The down side of using Early is he has to come across the bridge in March Column, and time is against you.

While you wait for your troops use your artillery to soften up the enemy (this is also what Jackson did historically).

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