Which battle is considered the turning point of the Civil War?

The Battle of Gettysburg is widely considered the turning point of the Civil War due to its significant impact on the overall military and psychological landscape of the conflict. Fought from July 1 to July 3, 1863, Gettysburg was the largest battle of the war and marked the high-water mark of the Confederacy. General Robert E. Lee's defeat in this battle ended his invasion of the North and led to a shift in momentum toward the Union.

The Union victory at Gettysburg not only resulted in substantial Confederate casualties but also bolstered Northern morale, which had been waning after a series of Union defeats. This battle galvanized support for the Union cause among Northern citizens and solidified General George Meade's reputation as a capable commander. Additionally, the outcome diminished the Confederate Army's ability to wage offensive operations for the remainder of the war, marking a shift toward defensive strategies.

Moreover, the timing of the battle coincided with the fall of Vicksburg, which gave the Union control of the Mississippi River. Together, these events were pivotal, helping to turn the tide in favor of the Union and ultimately leading to the Confederacy's defeat.