The Battle of Glorieta Pass, a pivotal engagement during the American Civil War, resulted in the deaths of 99 people.
Casualties at Glorieta Pass
The battle, fought on March 26–28, 1862, near Santa Fe, New Mexico Territory, saw significant losses for both Union and Confederate forces. While often overshadowed by larger eastern battles, Glorieta Pass had crucial strategic implications for the control of the American Southwest.
The casualties were distributed as follows:
| Force | Killed | Wounded | Captured | Total Casualties |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Union | 51 | 78 | 15 | 144 |
| Confederate | 48 | 80 | 92 | 220 |
This breakdown shows that while the Union suffered slightly more fatalities, the Confederate forces had a significantly higher number of captured soldiers, leading to a greater overall casualty count for them.
Strategic Significance of the Battle
Despite the Confederate forces achieving a tactical victory on the battlefield, the Battle of Glorieta Pass ultimately proved to be a key strategic win for the Union. The Confederates managed to push back Union forces during the engagement, but a decisive Union flanking maneuver destroyed their supply train, including vital wagons, provisions, and artillery. This severe blow to their logistical support forced the Confederate New Mexico Campaign to effectively end, preventing their advance into New Mexico and beyond, and ultimately securing the Southwest for the Union. The battle is often referred to as the "Gettysburg of the West" due to its critical turning point nature in the western theater of the war.
For more detailed information on the Battle of Glorieta Pass, its context, and its lasting impact, you can explore resources from organizations like the American Battlefield Trust.
