Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Today in History: Confederate Forces Launch Failed Attack on Washington D.C.

7/11/2025

33 3

Summary

Story summary

On July 11, 1864, during the American Civil War, Confederate forces led by Lieutenant General Jubal Early launched an unsuccessful assault on Washington, D.C. This battle, part of the Valley campaigns, aimed to capture the Union capital but ultimately failed against the defenses commanded by Major General Alexander McDowell McCook.

1 of 1

Story summary

On July 11, 1864, during the American Civil War, Confederate forces led by Lieutenant General Jubal Early launched an unsuccessful assault on Washington, D.C. This battle, part of the Valley campaigns, aimed to capture the Union capital but ultimately failed against the defenses commanded by Major General Alexander McDowell McCook.