key term - James Longstreet

Definition

James Longstreet was a senior Confederate general during the American Civil War, known for his service under General Robert E. Lee. His military strategies and decisions significantly influenced several major battles and campaigns in Georgia, notably the Battle of Chickamauga and the Siege of Atlanta, making him a key figure in the Confederate Army's efforts in the Western Theater.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Longstreet was known for his strong defensive tactics and was often considered one of the best generals in the Confederate Army, earning him the nickname 'Old Pete'.
2. He played a crucial role in the Confederate victory at Chickamauga by effectively flanking Union forces and utilizing surprise attacks.
3. Longstreet's decisions during the Siege of Atlanta were marked by his advocacy for a more defensive approach, contrasting with Lee's aggressive strategies.
4. After the war, Longstreet became a Republican and supported Reconstruction efforts, which led to tensions with former Confederates who viewed him as a traitor.
5. His reputation has been debated by historians, with some blaming him for losses at battles like Gettysburg, while others argue he was instrumental in earlier Confederate successes.

Review Questions

• How did James Longstreet's military strategies impact the outcomes of key battles in Georgia during the Civil War?
  • James Longstreet's military strategies had a profound impact on battles such as Chickamauga and the Siege of Atlanta. At Chickamauga, his ability to execute surprise flanking maneuvers led to a significant Confederate victory, demonstrating his tactical acumen. Conversely, during the Siege of Atlanta, his defensive strategies were at odds with Lee's more aggressive approach, which highlighted the differences in their military philosophies and ultimately influenced the campaign's effectiveness.
• Evaluate Longstreet's role in the Siege of Atlanta and how it reflected his overall military philosophy compared to other Confederate generals.
  • During the Siege of Atlanta, Longstreet advocated for a more defensive posture, reflecting his belief in conserving resources and manpower rather than engaging in costly assaults. This contrasted sharply with other Confederate generals like Lee, who often favored aggressive tactics. Longstreet's approach demonstrated a strategic divergence within the Confederate leadership that affected operational decisions and resource allocation throughout the campaign.
• Analyze how James Longstreet's post-war political choices affected his legacy and relationships within the former Confederate community.
  • After the Civil War, James Longstreet made controversial political choices by aligning himself with the Republican Party and supporting Reconstruction efforts. This shift alienated him from many former Confederates who viewed him as having betrayed their cause. His advocacy for civil rights for freedmen further complicated his legacy, leading to debates among historians about his role as a general versus his post-war actions. These choices significantly impacted how he was remembered in Southern memory and contributed to a complex narrative surrounding his contributions during the war.

Related terms

Battle of Chickamauga:

A major battle fought from September 18 to September 20, 1863, where Longstreet's tactical maneuvers helped secure a significant victory for the Confederates against Union forces.

Siege of Atlanta: A military campaign lasting from July to September 1864, where Longstreet played a role in attempting to reinforce Confederate defenses against Union General William Tecumseh Sherman's advancing troops.

Robert E. Lee: The commander of the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia, who relied heavily on Longstreet for strategic military advice and leadership during key battles.