July 3 1863 (Pickett's Charge)

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Military History Online

 

July 1 1863

July 2 1863

 

Day 3: July 3, 1863 - Plans and Preparations

 

Lee hoped to continue the attack early on the morning of the 3rd using Longstreet's Corps. But, Longstreet was not prepared that morning and Lee was forced to change his plan. Lee was encouraged by the near-penetrating attack by Anderson's Division in the Union center the day before.

 

Lee's plan first called for an artillery barrage by Confederate artillery along Seminary Ridge and east of town. It was hoped that the barrage would reduce the Union Batteries and inflict heavy damage to the surrounding infantry. After the barrage, nearly 12,000 men, including 3 brigades under the command of MG George E. Pickett, would attack the Union center. Once the assault reached the Union line, reinforcements would arrive to exploit the breakthrough. In support, Lee ordered General Stuart's cavalry to head east and strike southward in hopes of reaching the Union's rear.

 

The artillery barrage began at 13:00 and involved about 170 Confederate artillery pieces. The barrage covered the entire Union line but concentrated on its center. The Confederate guns were answered by about 80 Union guns and inflicted large numbers of casualties on the Confederate infantry. The Confederate guns also inflicted much damage on the Union batteries, but frequently tended to aim high and shoot over their targets due to poor visibility.

BG Henry J. Hunt, the Federal artillery commander, wished to conserve ammunition to counter any Confederate advance and ordered a Union cease-fire. The Confederate barrage continued for nearly two hours and soon became short of ammunition. But, the time had come for the attack...(Snip)

 

 

Pickett's Charge from the Federal lines

"I believe this attack will fail. No 15,000 men ever made can take that ridge."

James Longstreet

The Movie "Gettysburg"

"That old man destroyed my division"

George Pickett on R E Lee

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The Butchers Bill

 

Battle of Gettysburg

Date: July 1-3, 1863

 

Location: Pennsylvania

Confederate Commander: Robert E. Lee

Union Commander: George G. Meade

Confederate Forces Engaged: 75,000

Union Forces Engaged: 82,289

Winner: Union

Casualties: 51,112 (23,049 Union and 28,063 Confederate)