Battle of Kennesaw Mountain

Background. Sherman succeeded Grant as commander in the western theater in 1864. Johnston, whose replacement of Bragg is dated by its connection to Bragg's defeat at Chattanooga in November 1863, commanded the Army of Tennessee against Sherman. During the advance from Chattanooga to Atlanta in the spring of 1864, Johnston conducted a series of withdrawals that appeared similar to his Peninsula Campaign strategy, and flanking maneuvers compelled his forces to withdraw from heavily fortified positions with minimal casualties on either side.

Prior Engagements. In May 1864, Sherman's forces attempted to move away from their railroad supply line but became bogged down by fierce Confederate defenses. These defensive actions occurred at the Battle of New Hope Church, the Battle of Pickett's Mill, and the Battle of Dallas, setting the stage for subsequent confrontations in the campaign.

Command Changes. Johnston commanded the Army of Tennessee against Sherman in the Atlanta campaign. Davis removed Johnston from command on July 17, 1864, just outside Atlanta. The fate of Atlanta, from the Confederate standpoint, was all but decided by Johnston.