Battle of Gettysburg

Definition

The Battle of Gettysburg was a pivotal military engagement fought from July 1 to July 3, 1863, during the American Civil War, marking a turning point in the conflict. This battle saw the Union Army, led by General George Meade, successfully repel the Confederate Army, commanded by General Robert E. Lee, preventing Lee's invasion of the North. The significance of this battle extends beyond its military outcome, as it also influenced government policies and the war's trajectory, showcasing the changing nature of warfare and its impact on both the Union and Confederate states.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Battle of Gettysburg is often considered the turning point of the Civil War due to its significant impact on Southern morale and military strategy.
2. It resulted in approximately 51,000 casualties, making it one of the bloodiest battles in American history.
3. The Union victory at Gettysburg halted Lee's invasion of the North and marked a shift in momentum towards the Union side.
4. The battle also led to increased support for the Union cause and laid the groundwork for more aggressive tactics by Union generals in subsequent campaigns.
5. The aftermath of Gettysburg contributed to President Lincoln's decision to issue the Emancipation Proclamation and helped solidify his commitment to abolishing slavery.

Review Questions

• How did the outcome of the Battle of Gettysburg influence military strategies for both the Union and Confederate armies?
  • The outcome of the Battle of Gettysburg forced the Confederate Army to adopt more defensive strategies as they could no longer sustain a major offensive into Northern territory. For the Union Army, this victory bolstered confidence and encouraged a more aggressive approach in subsequent campaigns. The battle shifted the focus toward total war strategies that aimed to dismantle not just enemy armies but also their resources and infrastructure.
• Discuss how the Battle of Gettysburg affected governmental policies during and after the Civil War.
  • The Battle of Gettysburg had significant repercussions for governmental policies during the Civil War, especially concerning wartime strategies and the Emancipation Proclamation. The Union's victory at Gettysburg strengthened Lincoln's resolve to pursue emancipation as a war aim, promoting policies that would not only defeat the Confederacy but also address the moral issues surrounding slavery. The battle reinforced the notion that preserving the Union required not only military victories but also significant changes in policy.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of the Battle of Gettysburg on American society and its legacy in relation to Civil War memory and identity.
  • The long-term implications of the Battle of Gettysburg on American society are profound, as it shaped national memory and identity in post-war America. The battle became a symbol of sacrifice for freedom and unity, influencing how future generations viewed both the Civil War and issues like civil rights. The dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery and Lincoln's Gettysburg Address played crucial roles in shaping public sentiment about equality and democracy, embedding these ideas into American culture. This legacy continues to resonate today as Americans reflect on themes of national unity and social justice.

Related terms

Emancipation Proclamation:

An executive order issued by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863, freeing all slaves in Confederate-held territory.

Gettysburg Address:

A brief but profound speech delivered by President Lincoln on November 19, 1863, at the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery in Gettysburg, emphasizing national unity and equality.

Pickett's Charge: A significant military assault on July 3, 1863, during the Battle of Gettysburg where Confederate forces led by General George Pickett made a massive frontal attack on Union positions.