THE BATTLE OF COLUMBUS. APRIL 16-17, 1865 - Tecno-Libro

The Battle of Columbus was fought on April 16-17, 1865. The industrial center of Columbus, Georgia was a target in a series of planned attacks in a Union campaign that had begun that spring. Cutting a large swath of destruction across Alabama and Georgia, Wilson s Raid was a brilliant Union success. in March of 1865, Major General James H. Wilson s massive raid pushed into the Confederate stronghold of Alabama. The Confederate charged with defending the state was the Wizard of the Saddle, Lieutenant General Nathan Bedford Forrest. He sent word to General Wilson, i know the nicest little place down here, in the world, and whenever he is ready, i will fight him with any number from one to ten thousand Cavalry and abide the issue. General Wilson may pick his men and i ll pick mine. He may take his sabers and i ll take my six shooters. Forrest s challenge to Wilson was met with an overwhelming response. The outnumbered Confederate cavalry