Battle of Nashville, 15–16 December 1864

Background. Union forces had constructed defensive works around Nashville since February 1862. By 1864, a seven-mile semicircular line protected the city from attacks on its south and west sides. Confederate batteries were positioned at Bell's Bend on the Cumberland River below Nashville on December 2, 1864, setting the stage for the engagement.

Commanders. Major General George H. Thomas commanded the Union Army of the Cumberland. Lieutenant General John Bell Hood led the Confederate Army of Tennessee. Hood was recommended for promotion to lieutenant general after his bravery at Chickamauga, dated September 20, 1863, and the Confederate Senate confirmed the promotion on February 11, 1864, as Hood was preparing to return to duty. He later took command of the Army of Tennessee during the Atlanta Campaign, becoming the youngest soldier on either side to command an army.

Outcome. Thomas attacked on December 15, 1864, and the battle effectively destroyed Hood's army in two days of fighting. Sherman later noted that Thomas annihilated Hood's army on December 16, 1864, describing his services as transcendent and worthy of monuments alongside those of Nelson and Wellington.