New Richmond Virginia

Richmond, Virginia: As the capital of the Confederacy for most of the war, it was a primary target for Union armies.

Richmond, Virginia, was the capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War, making it a primary political, industrial, and military target for the Union. As the seat of government, it housed the Confederate Congress and was a vital hub for manufacturing (especially the Tredegar Iron Works), railroads, and military hospitals, leading to major campaigns like the Peninsula Campaign and the Overland Campaign, and culminating in its fiery evacuation in April 1865.

Political and economic center

Served as the capital of the Confederate States of America from May 1861 to April 1865.

Became a major industrial center, producing weapons and supplies, and a crucial railroad hub, making its defense a top priority.

Experienced overcrowding, shortages, and civil unrest, including the 1863 Bread Riot.

Military significance

A major objective for the Union, with campaigns like the Peninsula Campaign (1862) and the Overland Campaign (1864) aiming to capture it.

Home to military hospitals and prisons like Libby Prison and Belle Isle.

Defended by extensive earthworks and armies, but ultimately fell after the Siege of Petersburg.

The fall of Richmond

After the Confederate defeat at the Battle of Five Forks, the government abandoned the city on April 2, 1865.

Confederate troops set fire to military supplies, which spread and destroyed much of central Richmond.

Union forces entered the burning city the next day, marking a symbolic end to the Confederacy.