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On September 8, 1862, General Lee becomes aware of the fact that Union troops occupy Harpers Ferry. This is a danger to his plans as Lee expects to draw supplies from the northern end of the Shenandoah Valley. Lee is therefore compelled to capture Harpers Ferry and on September 9, 1862 his plan of operation is set forth.Lee decides to divide his army into three segments. One is led by generals Jackson and McLaws to capture Harpers Ferry. These troops will attack the fortified garrison from the west and the north.

A second segment of his army is led by General Walker to attack Harpers Ferry from the southeast.

A third division calls for General Longstreet to capture Boonsboro and Hagerstown as a base for future operations.

This is the famous "lost order" that is retrieved by a Union soldier and given to General McClellan. He now has Lee's plans but advances with all precautions.

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7y ago

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