Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Definition

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania is the site of a pivotal battle during the American Civil War that took place from July 1 to July 3, 1863. This battle marked a significant turning point in the war as Union forces defeated the Confederate Army, halting its invasion of the North. The victory at Gettysburg, coupled with the Union's later triumph at Vicksburg, boosted Northern morale and turned the tide in favor of the Union.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Battle of Gettysburg is considered one of the largest battles fought during the American Civil War, with over 50,000 soldiers killed, wounded, or missing.
2. General George Meade led the Union Army to victory against Confederate General Robert E. Lee's forces at Gettysburg.
3. The battle featured infamous events such as Pickett's Charge, a failed assault by Confederate troops on the last day of fighting.
4. Gettysburg is often regarded as a turning point in the Civil War because it ended Lee's invasion of the North and shifted momentum to the Union side.
5. In addition to military significance, Gettysburg became a symbol of sacrifice and national unity, further highlighted by Lincoln's Gettysburg Address delivered later that year.

Review Questions

• How did the outcome of the Battle of Gettysburg impact the morale and strategy of both the Union and Confederate forces?
  • The victory at Gettysburg significantly boosted Union morale and strengthened their resolve to continue fighting. It marked a turning point where the Confederates were forced to retreat back to the South, disrupting their momentum and strategy for invading Northern territories. Conversely, the defeat demoralized Confederate troops and leaders, leading to a shift in their strategy as they became more defensive in subsequent engagements.
• Discuss the importance of Gettysburg in the broader context of the American Civil War and how it shaped subsequent military campaigns.
  • Gettysburg was crucial not only for its immediate military outcomes but also for its long-term effects on the Civil War. After this battle, Union forces gained confidence and began to take a more aggressive approach in their campaigns against Confederate territories. The defeat also led to increased scrutiny of Confederate strategies and resources, making it harder for them to launch future offensives effectively.
• Evaluate how Lincoln's Gettysburg Address redefined the purpose of the war and its implications for American society moving forward.
  • Lincoln's Gettysburg Address reframed the Civil War as not just a fight for Union preservation but also as a struggle for equality and freedom. By emphasizing human equality and national unity, Lincoln laid the groundwork for post-war reconciliation and civil rights movements. This speech resonated deeply within American society, influencing public perception of liberty and democracy while serving as a reminder of the sacrifices made at Gettysburg and throughout the war.

Related terms

Civil War: A conflict between the Northern states (Union) and Southern states (Confederacy) from 1861 to 1865 over issues including states' rights and slavery.

Battlefield: The physical location where a battle takes place, often marked by historical significance and preservation efforts.

Gettysburg Address: A famous speech delivered by President Abraham Lincoln on November 19, 1863, emphasizing the principles of human equality and the importance of national unity.