The famous quote often associated with the Battle of Antietam is "Bloodiest day in American history."

This phrase highlights the staggering number of casualties suffered during the battle on September 17, 1862, with approximately 22,000 soldiers killed, wounded, or missing in just one day of combat. The intensity of the fighting and the horrific losses underscored the brutal reality of the Civil War, marking Antietam as a pivotal moment in U.S. history. This designation serves as a grim reminder of the human cost of conflict and the sacrifices made by both Union and Confederate forces.