The worst they had yet experienced. 1862 was a heartbreak year for many Confederates. The tide of bad news began early, with Grant’s victories in the West, and just accelerated as the year went on. The loss of New Orleans was keenly felt.

In Richmond, the price of just about everything had doubled since the war commenced, and this at a time when many people were out of work. The price of bread became so high that there would be a street riot by women of the city the following year.

The Army of Northern Virginia remained the pride and the hope of the Confederate cause. Despite his defeat at Antietam, Lee was practically revered for his tactical skill. Lee took this opportunity to reorganize his forces. Upon his recommendation, Stonewall Jackson and James Longstreet were both promoted to lieutenant-general with command of wings—or corps—of the army.