Plans can never keep up with changes, and the American Civil War, which was thought to be nearing an end, was still at a stalemate by 1864.
Campaigns involving hundreds of thousands of troops could not be concluded in a day or two. Neither side could afford to lose, and both commanders were cautious and seasoned. The battles became wars of attrition.
The Southern Army had slightly better combat capabilities, but the Northern Army had more people. On a battlefront extending over a hundred kilometers, both sides fought bitterly several times, each achieving victories and defeats. Overall, it was a draw.
The power of the butterfly effect is immense. With support from various countries, the Southern Government gained strength while the Northern Government was weakened, reflecting directly on the battlefield.
