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Today in History: Ulysses S. Grant launches Overland Campaign in Virginia

5/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On May 5, 1864, the Battle of the Wilderness marked the start of Union Lt. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant's Overland Campaign during the American Civil War. Fought near Locust Grove, Virginia, the battle resulted in heavy casualties—nearly 29,000 combined—but ended inconclusively as Grant disengaged to continue his offensive against Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee.

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Story summary

On May 5, 1864, the Battle of the Wilderness marked the start of Union Lt. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant's Overland Campaign during the American Civil War. Fought near Locust Grove, Virginia, the battle resulted in heavy casualties—nearly 29,000 combined—but ended inconclusively as Grant disengaged to continue his offensive against Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee.