Why did the Confederate forces spare Washington, D.C. after the Battle of Bull Run?

Question

Why did the Confederate forces spare Washington, D.C. after the Battle of Bull Run?

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1 point
They had respect for the nation’s capital.
They lost too many men to continue the fight.
They were disorganized and missed their chance.
They knew the best Union forces were protecting the nation’s capital.

Answer 1

The best answer to this question is: "They were disorganized and missed their chance." After the Confederate forces won the First Battle of Bull Run in July 1861, they had an opportunity to pursue the retreating Union forces and potentially capture Washington, D.C. However, due to their disorganization and lack of coordination, they were unable to capitalize on their victory and spare Washington, D.C.