The aftermath of the Battle of Antietam led to changes in command structure.

While McClellan secured a strategic victory, his hesitant tactics and reluctance to aggressively chase after Lee's retreating troops led to increasing discontent among both political and military figures. Consequently, President Lincoln's faith in McClellan's leadership began to wane. This ultimately resulted in a change of command later in the war, with Lincoln replacing McClellan in November 1862. These developments underscored the demand for more decisive action and a stronger leadership presence within the Union Army.