Question

As the day wore on, the strength of [Union leader] McDowell's troops was sapped [drained] by the continuous arrival of fresh Southern reinforcements. Eventually, the stubborn Confederates proved more than a match for McDowell's men, and the Northerners began to retreat across Bull Run.

The Union pullout began as an orderly movement. However, when the bridge over Cub Run was destroyed, cutting off the major route of retreat, it degenerated into a rout. The narrow roads and fords, clogged by the many carts, wagons, and buggies full of people who had driven out from Washington, D.C., to see the spectacle, hampered the withdrawal of the Union Army. The Southerners tried to launch a pursuit, but were too tired and disorganized from the day's fighting to be effective. —Library of Congress

Question
Use the passage to answer the question.
According to the excerpt, what can be inferred about the first Battle of Bull Run?
(1 point)
Responses

The battle lasted for several days, ultimately leading to the Confederate army’s retreat.
The battle lasted for several days, ultimately leading to the Confederate army’s retreat.

The battle took place in the South so it was easier for the Confederates to bring fresh troops.
The battle took place in the South so it was easier for the Confederates to bring fresh troops.

The battle was the result of a shocking ambush by the Confederate army on Northern soil.
The battle was the result of a shocking ambush by the Confederate army on Northern soil.

The battle took place in the border states, which gave the Confederate army easy access to the Potomac River.

Answer 1

The battle took place in the South so it was easier for the Confederates to bring fresh troops.

Reason: The passage states Union strength was drained by "continuous arrival of fresh Southern reinforcements," implying Confederate reinforcements were nearby and could join the fight.