The battles of Antietam, Gettysburg, and Vicksburg were major battles for the North during the Civil War. Antietam was important because the South tried to invade the North. This was not a part of the South’s strategy, but the South was hoping for an impressive win that could bring in support from foreign countries. Unfortunately for the South, a copy of the battle plans was accidently dropped and discovered by the North. As a result of this battle, the South had to withdraw to Virginia. The South was not able to secure help from other countries. If the Union would have pursued, they might have won the war at this time.

Gettysburg and Vicksburg were critical battles. The North won both battles. At Gettysburg, the South again tried to invade the North. General Lee felt a southern victory would bring needed foreign help. He also knew it would increase pressure on President Lincoln to negotiate a peace treaty. However, the South was defeated in this battle. This realistically ended any chance the South had to win the war.

At Vicksburg, the Union victory gave the North complete control of the Mississippi River. As a result, the South was now geographically divided or split. Transportation of products and supplies would also become much more difficult. This battle secured the western area for the North. These three battles could be viewed as turning points in the Civil War.