Battle of Manassas
Prior to the Battle of Manassas, the Union Army was in a poor state for several reasons. ... Army was spread all along different posts throughout the frontiers, where battle with Indians was constant in an effort to protect Americans who had ventured westward. ... Prior to the Battle of Manassas the Union Army was still weak, if not in numbers, in strength and quality. ... General Irvin McDowall in the Battle of Manassas. ... Every roadnet and railnet of northern Virginia practically led directly to Manassas junction. In accordance with the hurried anticipation of the Union Army to strike before militiamen reached the end of their three month enlistments, and in accordance with General Scotts plan, Manassas junction was a major target of a large concentration of Confederate soldiers.