Who was the Union General defeated at the First Battle of Bull Run?

The Union General who was defeated at the First Battle of Bull Run was General McDowell. This battle, which took place on July 21, 1861, was the first major battle of the American Civil War. General Irvin McDowell was in command of the Union forces and faced Confederate troops led by General P.G.T. Beauregard and General Joseph E. Johnston.

McDowell's forces, although initially hopeful of a swift victory, encountered strong resistance from the Confederate army. The battle resulted in a significant Confederate victory, demonstrating the challenges the Union army faced at the outset of the war. This defeat had a profound impact on Union morale and strategy, highlighting the need for better training and organization among Union troops.

The performance of McDowell in this battle led to criticism and ultimately contributed to changes in leadership within the Union army as the war progressed. Understanding McDowell's role at Bull Run is crucial for grasping the initial dynamics of the Civil War and the challenges that both sides would encounter in the following years.