Never had "Stonewall" Jackson faced a stronger enemy position. Arriving on Schoolhouse Ridge on the first day of the battle, Jackson scanned Bolivar Heights, the lower ridge in front of him, and saw a dangerous enemy: 7,000 Union infantry and dozens of cannon stretched across the ridge, ready for battle. He realized a frontal assault would be deadly. After securing Schoolhouse Ridge with his artillery and 14,000 infantry, Jackson labored to open communications with his officers on Maryland and Loudoun heights. Meanwhile, he devised a plan of deception and surprise.
