How the Battle of Gettysburg Changed the American Civil War

The Battle of Gettysburg was a pivotal moment in American Civil War history, and one of the bloodiest struggles ever to be fought on US soil. This battle marked a turning point in the war as the Confederate forces were defeated, causing an overwhelming ripple effect throughout the conflict. The effects of this battle can still be felt today, as it was such an important turning point in the war.

What Was the Battle of Gettysburg?

The Battle of Gettysburg was a major three-day battle that took place from July 1-3, 1863 in and around the town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. It was the largest battle ever fought in the American Civil War, and resulted in more than 50,000 combined casualties on both sides. Confederate General Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia had won several victories over Union forces and marched towards Pennsylvania to regain support from Southern loyalists there while also diverting Union forces away from their positions elsewhere.

Little did they know, General George Meade’s Army had been closely following the Confederate’s steps and intercepted near Gettysburg in one of the most strategic maneuvers in American history. The Union forces held their ground and effectively neutralized General Lee’s forces, preventing them from advancing further into Pennsylvania. This victory at Gettysburg was, by far, the Union’s most significant victory and one of the most significant moments for the Union forces during the war.

Mr. Lincoln’s Address at Gettysburg

This battle was particularly highlighted as it was President Abraham Lincoln’s opportunity to commemorate those that had made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom. During his now famous “Gettysburg Address’, Lincoln reminded Union citizens that it was their duty to ensure that the fallen were properly honored and to finish what their brothers in arms had started. His speech concluded by asserting that it would be up to future generations to continue honoring their fallen heroes and remaining resolute in their defense of liberty.

The words spoken during this address resonated with Union citizens across the country and created a heightened sense of patriotism and national pride throughout America. This speech was significant because it was a reminder of the importance of those who fought for our freedom and those that had made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of liberty. It served as a call to action for those still fighting to remain strong and hold-fast despite their losses and weariness.

Essential Turning Point in the American Civil War

Overall, this battle was essential in determining how events would unfold for rest of the war. The Union victory handed General Lee one of his few major defeats throughout the war and made sure that Southerners wouldn’t be able to gain any more ground. Confederate forces retreated after three days of fighting and loss more men than they would at any other point in the war. The many losses suffered was also a major financial setback for the Confederacy, which had much fewer resources than the Union forces.

The defeat also meant that Union forces could turn their focus south towards Georgia and Virginia. These states had supplied essential materials to Southern forces throughout the years and were particularly important for Confederate defense. In response, Union forces implemented a “total war” policy that saw them raid cities and farmland, destroying crucial stores of food supplies, factories, railroads and infrastructure. This ultimately crippled Southern resources, leading up to their defeat at Appomattox in April 1865.

The Legacy of Gettysburg

Although it has been over 150 years since the battle was fought, its legacy still remains to this day. Visiting Gettysburg remains one of the most popular tourist attractions in Pennsylvania and serves as a reminder to what happened so many years ago. Every year there are thousands of visitors to commemorate those who fell during the battle and its aftermath.

More importantly, Gettysburg is remembered as a reminder of what it means to fight for freedom. The courage and determination shown by soldiers on both sides is something we should all aspire towards today. We should all remember that freedom is never free and that many have given their lives so that we can live in a state where we can make our own decisions without fear of retribution or judgement.

In conclusion, the Battle of Gettysburg played a major role in influencing the outcome of the American Civil War. It was here that President Abraham Lincoln delivered his immortalized address which would shape how future generations think about freedom and sacrifice alike. Furthermore, any visit to Pennsylvania should include a visit to Gettysburg, which continues to serve as a somber reminder of how much those who fought here gave up in order to secure freedom for ourselves and future generations. History.- Access June 15th, 2021