In early 1862, the Confederacy advanced into the New Mexico territory with a new force and fresh leadership. Brigadier General Henry Sibley wanted to make his mark by claiming all New Mexico (including modern Arizona) for the rebel cause. The problem, he would soon discover, was that to win battles was not the same thing as to establish control. Opposing him was a friend and comrade of several years, Colonel Edward R. S. Canby. And Canby understood the realities of war in the desert very well.

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