7. The Battle of Wilson’s Creek
The Battle of Wilson’s Creek, fought on August 10, 1861, was the first major Civil War battle to occur west of the Mississippi River. Located near Springfield, Missouri, this encounter was pivotal in the struggle for control of the border state. Union forces, commanded by Brigadier General Nathaniel Lyon, clashed with Confederate troops led by Major General Sterling Price and Brigadier General Ben McCulloch.
Despite being outnumbered, Lyon’s forces launched a surprise attack, but ultimately, the Confederates secured a hard-fought victory. The battle demonstrated the strategic importance of Missouri and set the tone for further conflict in the Western theater, showcasing the fierce determination on both sides.
