Antietam was one of the critical battles of the American Civil War. The fortunes of the South were riding high after the resounding victory at Second Manassas. While Bragg and Kirby Smith invaded Kentucky, Lee's invasion of Maryland was intended to maintain the momentum of the Southern offensive and win the recognition of the European powers. But the Confederates' bold plan was compromised and at the Antietam River the Army of Northern Virginia found...