The critical battle that marked the turning point of the American Civil War was the Battle of Gettysburg, fought from July 1 to July 3, 1863. This pivotal encounter saw the Union Army, commanded by General George G. Meade, defeat the Confederate Army led by General Robert E. Lee. The defeat at Gettysburg ended Lee's invasion of the North and significantly weakened Confederate morale. The battle resulted in a large number of casualties, making it one of the bloodiest confrontations in the war. Following Gettysburg, the Union gained momentum, ultimately leading to their victory and restoring the Union.