As 1862 drew to a close, the United States faced a low point in the Civil War, suffering major defeats at Fredericksburg and Chickasaw Bayou. With the Emancipation Proclamation set to take effect on January 1, 1863, Maj. Gen. William S. Rosecrans and the Army of the Cumberland were tasked with securing a decisive victory.

Join historian Dan Masters as he delves into the strategy, tactics, and key command decisions behind this crucial moment. Using archival and firsthand accounts—many previously unpublished—he brings to life the experiences of the soldiers who fought on the battlefield.

Daniel A. Masters, a University of Toledo graduate, is a historian specializing in the Civil War’s Western Theater. Known for his blog Dan Masters’ Civil War Chronicles, he has authored ten books and numerous articles. His 2017 book, Sherman’s Praetorian Guard, won a local history award, and his latest, Echoes of Battle (2022), was co-written with Larry M. Strayer.