The Siege of Petersburg: The Civil War in Four Minutes

The city of Petersburg, 24 miles south of Richmond, was the junction point of five railroads that supplied the entire upper James River region. Capturing this important transportation hub was key for Gen. Ulysses S. Grant as it would isolate the Confederate capital and force Gen. Robert E. Lee to either evacuate Richmond or fight Grant's larger army on open ground.

Although the Confederates held off the Federals in the Battle of Petersburg, Grant implemented a siege of the city that lasted for 292 days and ultimately cost the South the war. Co-founder of the American Battlefield Trust Will Greene describes these pivotal actions.

The American Battlefield Trust preserves America’s hallowed battlegrounds and educates the public about what happened there and why it matters. We permanently protect these battlefields for future generations as a lasting and tangible memorial to the brave soldiers who fought in the American Revolution, the War of 1812, and the Civil War.

[MatthewChenault]

For some context here, the siege of Petersburg (292 days) was nearly as long as the Battle of Verdun (303 days).

[chrisgacek]

Thank you for adding this to series. This was excellent. The Petersburg campaign deserves as much attention as the Overland Campaign. I see that video is 18 minutes long.

[tomdynia]

Thanks, Will. Looking forward to the next volume in your history of the Petersburg Campaign.

[flyfast]

I live less than than 2 miles from the infamous Petersburg crater

[nh_highlander]

Very good narrative to Petersburg battles, cleared up a few things I have had on mind about that siege. Thank you for your knowledge. 👌

[outdoorlife]

When I was a child in the 70's, there was a documentary on Petersburg. In it the guy said, that Grant would let you surrender and go home if your home was in Federal lines, which I have found several times. What I haven't found is where he said, that if you brought your rifle, they would give you 5 dollars for it. I was wondering have you seen anything like that.

[zzbudzz]

My great great grandfather fought in the Virginia 61st under general Mahoney. I would like some more information about the 61st Virginia but i can't seem to find much. Can anyone point me in the right direction to find out more information about that unit?

[johnzajac]

At 3:48, note that the photographer intentionally hid the face of the man in the derby hat giving a note to the Union officer.

[QurikyBark]

Are Petersburg, Virginia and St. Petersburg, Russia names after the same person?

[powellc]

Can anyone explain to me why Grant didn't just cut the rail supply lines?

[shiningstaer]

Man I’ve lost the passion. I really need y’all to keep making videos and talking. Just talk talk talk! Tell us ALL the little things you know. More GARY AND GARY!