During the Battle of Antietam, the role of the press was primarily To influence public opinion.

Journalists and reporters covered the battle extensively, shaping the narrative around the conflict and its significance. Their accounts of the brutal fighting and high casualties brought the realities of war to the public's attention, stirring emotions and shaping perceptions of both the Union and Confederate efforts. The press also played a crucial role in framing the battle as a pivotal moment in the Civil War, ultimately influencing support for the Union cause and setting the stage for the Emancipation Proclamation.