In the summer of 1864, Lee sent Early into the Shenandoah Valley to relieve a Federal threat against his communication and supply lines and to draw Grant's troops away from the siege of Petersburg. Early cleared the Valley of enemy forces and came within sight of the Capitol dome at Washington, badly frightening the Union. Grant chose Sheridan to neutralize Early. Sheridan took his time getting ready but then struck with overwhelming force, defeating Early and virtually destroying his command.