Existing comment:
"No Turning Back"
The sustained fighting and appalling casualties at the Wilderness and Spotsylvania [battlefields] marked a dramatic change in the rhythm and nature of the war. Confederate losses impaired Lee's ability to resist the Union advance through Virginia. In the long run Union losses, though severe, were replaced with new troops. Grant declared, "There will be no turning back." He made good on his promise.
Grant's commitment challenged the will of the Northern public to persevere. Other battlefield successes later in 1864 helped ensure Lincoln's re-election -- guaranteeing that the war would be waged to a victorious end. |