Antietam and Gettysburg represent the two major battles fought on northern soil during the U.S. Civil War. Most people are familiar with both as they represent the two bloodiest battles of the war.

However, in July 1864, Southern General Robert E. Lee ordered another invasion of the north. I admit even I did not know of this incursion as it is not prominently mentioned. Lee did not lead this invasion as he was defending Richmond, but gave the order to General Early.

The plan was to advance on Washington, which was now lightly defended, General Grant taking most battle-hardened troops south with him. The hope was by threatening, or even capturing Washington, northern voters would elect a new president in November - one who may agree to end the war and let the south go its own way. It was the only chance they really had to win.

Grant caught wind of the move and dispatched troops back to Washington, but they may not arrive on time. In charge of defending Maryland, Union General Lew Wallace hastily assembled a force - mostly made up of new recruits who had yet to taste battle. He headed west to confront Early's overwhelming forces at Monocacy Creek.

The Union forces had little hope of victory, and victory was not their goal. The fought tenaciously and before retreating back toward Washington, had delayed Early long enough for the reinforcements to arrive in the city.

Though Early continued to the outskirts of Washington, he could do no damage to the city and eventually had to withdraw. Hopes of influencing the election had failed, perhaps sealing the Confederacy's fate.