Stuart’s Raid Around McClellan in June 1862 was one of Confederate cavalry commander J.E.B. Stuart’s most famous exploits, during the Peninsula Campaign in Virginia.

J. E. B. Stuart was ordered by Robert E. Lee to reconnoiter the right flank of Union General George B. McClellan’s Army of the Potomac, which was threatening Richmond.

On June 12, 1862, Stuart set out with roughly 1,200 Confederate cavalrymen. Instead of simply scouting and returning, Stuart discovered that McClellan’s right flank was vulnerable and decided to ride completely around the Union army.

Over roughly three days and about 100 miles, Stuart’s men captured prisoners and horses, destroyed Union supplies and disrupted communications before returning safely to Confederate lines.

Why it mattered

The raid gave Lee valuable intelligence showing that McClellan’s right flank was exposed. Less than two weeks later, Lee launched the Seven Days Battles, beginning his effort to drive McClellan away from Richmond.

It also made J.E.B. Stuart famous throughout the Confederacy and established his reputation as one of the Civil War’s most daring cavalry commanders.

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