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Middle Colonies in Colonial America

The Middle Colonies in the Colonial Era were New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. Known as the “Breadbasket Colonies,” they were diverse in terms of government, culture, and society but had similar economies. Although they supported the ideals of the American Revolution, they were reluctant to support independence. However, they were four of the 13 Original Colonies that declared independence from Britain in July 1776, creating the United States of America.

Middleburg, Battle (1863) — Gettysburg Campaign

The Battle of Middleburg was fought from June 17–19, 1863, during the Gettysburg Campaign. Union cavalry under Colonel Alfred Duffié and General David McMurtrie Gregg fought Confederate cavalry commanded by General J.E.B. Stuart for control of Middleburg and the roads leading through the Blue Ridge Mountains. Although Union forces regained Middleburg, Stuart withdrew toward Upperville and continued to prevent the Federals from gathering information about General Robert E. Lee’s movements.

Milliken's Bend, Battle (1863) — Vicksburg Campaign

The Battle of Milliken’s Bend was fought on June 7, 1863, during the Vicksburg Campaign. Confederate troops attacked a Union supply depot defended largely by newly recruited black soldiers, many of whom had formerly been enslaved. The Union defenders held their position with support from the gunboats Choctaw and Lexington, forcing the Confederates to withdraw. The courage of the African American soldiers helped change attitudes about them serving in the Union Army.