The Battle of Cedar Creek took place on October 19, 1864, during the American Civil War. It was part of the Shenandoah Valley Campaign and involved Union forces under General Philip Sheridan facing off against Confederate troops led by General Jubal Early. The battle began with a surprise attack by Early's forces, initially pushing the Union troops back. However, Sheridan rallied his troops and launched a counterattack, turning the tide of the battle. The Union victory at Cedar Creek helped secure their control over the Shenandoah Valley and contributed to the overall weakening of the Confederate army in the region.