During the American Civil War's Peninsula Campaign (1862), Union General George B. McClellan's Army of the Potomac advanced toward Richmond but faced a counteroffensive by Confederate General Robert E. Lee during the Seven Days Battles. Despite superior numbers, McClellan’s cautious leadership led to retreats after engagements like Gaines' Mill and Malvern Hill. Believing his army outmatched, McClellan abandoned the campaign, retreating to the James River. His hesitancy allowed Lee to secure Ric