Soldiers' National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Definition

The Soldiers' National Cemetery is a burial ground established in 1863 for Union soldiers who died in the Battle of Gettysburg during the Civil War. It symbolizes the Union's commitment to honoring its fallen soldiers and reflects the broader government policies of memorialization and national unity during this tumultuous period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Soldiers' National Cemetery was dedicated on November 19, 1863, just a few months after the Battle of Gettysburg, which was one of the deadliest battles in the Civil War.
2. Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address at the cemetery's dedication, a speech that became one of the most iconic in American history, highlighting themes of equality and national purpose.
3. The cemetery contains the remains of over 3,500 Union soldiers, making it a significant site for remembrance and reflection on sacrifice during the Civil War.
4. The creation of the cemetery was part of a larger effort by the federal government to create national cemeteries across the country, further solidifying a commitment to honor those who served.
5. The Soldiers' National Cemetery is now part of Gettysburg National Military Park, which preserves the historical significance of both the battle and its aftermath.

Review Questions

• How did the establishment of the Soldiers' National Cemetery reflect government policies during the Civil War regarding memorialization?
  • The establishment of the Soldiers' National Cemetery showcased the federal government's commitment to honor and remember Union soldiers who fought and died in battle. This move aligned with broader policies aimed at memorialization, as it provided a formal burial place and acknowledged their sacrifices. By creating such cemeteries, the government aimed to promote national unity and healing following the war's devastating impact.
• Discuss how Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address relates to the themes represented in the Soldiers' National Cemetery.
  • Lincoln's Gettysburg Address ties directly to the themes represented at the Soldiers' National Cemetery by reinforcing ideas of equality, sacrifice, and national unity. The speech emphasized that those who died were not just lost lives but martyrs for a greater cause—preserving democracy. The cemetery itself stands as a physical testament to this idea, serving as a reminder of their sacrifice and urging future generations to continue fighting for freedom and unity.
• Evaluate the long-term significance of the Soldiers' National Cemetery within American memory and identity post-Civil War.
  • The long-term significance of the Soldiers' National Cemetery lies in its role in shaping American memory and identity after the Civil War. It became a central symbol for honoring military service and sacrifice, influencing how future conflicts were memorialized. As part of a national cemetery system, it helped cultivate a collective memory around veterans' contributions to national ideals, fostering a sense of unity that transcended regional divisions. This ongoing recognition contributes to contemporary discussions about patriotism and sacrifice in America.

Related terms

Gettysburg Address:

A famous speech delivered by President Abraham Lincoln at the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery, emphasizing national unity and the principles of human equality.

National Cemetery System: A system established by the U.S. government to provide burial sites for veterans and their families, ensuring they are honored and remembered.

Memorialization: The act of preserving the memory of individuals or events through monuments, ceremonies, and other forms of remembrance, particularly significant after the Civil War.