after pursuing Confederate Gen Robert E Lee into Maryland Maj Gen George B McClellan of the Union Army launched attacks against Lees army who were in defensive positions behind Antietam Creek what if

If Maj. Gen. Joseph Hooker's corps didn't mount a powerful assault on Lee's left flank at dawn on September 17, the outcome of the Battle of Antietam could have been very different. Hooker's attack was a crucial turning point in the battle, as it forced Lee to shift troops to defend his left flank, weakening his overall position.

Without Hooker's attack, Lee may have been able to hold his ground and repel the Union assault, or even launch a counterattack of his own. This could have resulted in a Confederate victory at Antietam, which would have had significant consequences for the Civil War.

A Confederate victory at Antietam could have emboldened the Confederacy and prolonged the war, potentially leading to a different outcome. It could have also impacted international relations, as a Confederate victory may have encouraged foreign powers to recognize and support the Confederacy.

Overall, the absence of Hooker's attack on Lee's left flank would have altered the course of the Battle of Antietam and potentially changed the outcome of the Civil War