Dan Snow's History Hit Battle of Gettysburg
Aug 16, 2023
The Battle of Gettysburg, the bloodiest single battle of the American Civil War in July 1863, is discussed in this episode. Topics explored include the lack of planning and accidental nature of the battle, the myth of Confederates searching for shoes, the uncertainty on the third day, the Confederate assault, and the significance of Vicksburg and General Grant's philosophy of war during the Civil War.
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Gettysburg's Unplanned Origins
- Gettysburg battle was largely unplanned and happened spontaneously due to coincidental army movements.
- Lee's northern raid aimed to forage and possibly capture Harrisburg and Washington, D.C., but led to an unintended major conflict.
Numbers vs. Leadership
- The Union Army of the Potomac had about 120,000 effective troops, while Lee's Confederate forces numbered around 90,000.
- Despite being outnumbered, Lee had a record of tactical victories, making numbers less decisive than leadership and strategy.
Meade’s Rapid Command Success
- George Meade was a newly appointed but highly competent Union commander relying on deliberate planning.
- Despite just three days in command, Mead effectively managed the massive logistical and strategic complexity of the battle.