Today in History: Second Battle of Bull Run

Last Updated on September 27, 2020

Today in History–August 30–the Library of Congress features the Second Battle of Bull Run (Manassas), which ended this date in 1862 with a retreat of Union forces after three days of fighting. Find out more by visiting the Today in History section, then click the links below to access numerous primary sources and teaching resources related to Bull Run and the Civil War.

Bull Run images

Bull Run maps

Bull Run sheet music

First-person account of Bull Run, includes analysis activity

Mr. Russel on Bull Run July 19, 1861

What I saw at Bull Run. An address by Edwin S. Barrett, delivered in the Town Hall, Concord, Mass., July 21st, 1886, on the 25th anniversary of the Battle of Bull Run

Letters & diary entries related to Bull Run

1862 historic newspaper coverage of the Battle of Bull Run

First battle of Bull Run primary source collection

Civil War primary source collections & teaching resources