The Hornet's Nest became a stubborn Union position that Confederate troops attacked repeatedly instead of bypassing. Depending on how separate assaults are counted, the Confederates charged it between eight and fourteen times. Brigadier General Daniel Ruggles eventually massed much of the available Confederate artillery, and Prentiss surrendered with roughly 2,000 to 2,400 men after the defence had bought Grant time. Johnston was wounded while leading troops forward, illustrating the distinction between courage and higher command: an army commander is most valuable when directing the whole battle. He had sent his personal surgeon to care for prisoners and bled out when no one applied a tourniquet. His death cost the Confederacy leadership and morale as well as a senior commander.
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The Hornet's Nest and Johnston's fatal command choice
Repeated Confederate assaults on the Hornet's Nest bought the Union time, while Johnston's attempt to lead a charge personally removed the Confederate army's key commander.