Gettysburg field civil war

Gettysburg battlefield, site of the bloodiest battle of the American Civil War, now a national historic memorial.

About this subject

The Battle of Gettysburg took place from July 1 to 3, 1863, in the town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. It was the bloodiest engagement of the American Civil War, with approximately 51,000 soldiers killed, wounded, or missing. The Union Army, commanded by Major General George Meade, defeated the Confederate Army of General Robert E. Lee, who was trying to invade the North. This outcome was a turning point, as the Confederate army never again launched a major offensive into Northern territory.

Four months after the battle, President Abraham Lincoln visited the field to dedicate the Soldiers' National Cemetery. His Gettysburg Address, only 272 words long, became one of the most famous speeches in American history. In it, Lincoln redefined the war as a struggle for freedom and equality, not just for the preservation of the Union. The phrase 'government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth' resonates to this day.

Today, the Gettysburg Battlefield is a national park managed by the National Park Service. Over one million visitors annually travel its roads, where more than 1,300 monuments and markers commemorate military units and specific events. Iconic sites such as Little Round Top, the Wheatfield, and Pickett's Charge are essential stops for understanding the military strategy of the era. The preservation of the battlefield is considered exemplary, allowing visitors an immersive experience of the original landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the turning point of the Battle of Gettysburg?

The most famous turning point was the Union defense of Little Round Top on the second day. Pickett's Charge on the third day, repulsed with heavy Confederate losses, also marked the collapse of the Southern attack.

What is the Gettysburg Address?

It is a short speech by President Abraham Lincoln, delivered on November 19, 1863, during the dedication of the military cemetery. It reaffirmed the ideals of liberty and equality, becoming a central piece of American memory.

How many soldiers died at the Battle of Gettysburg?

It is estimated that about 51,000 soldiers from both sides were casualties (killed, wounded, or captured). Of these, approximately 7,000 died on the field during the three days of battle.