Remembering The Battle of Gettysburg - 150th Anniversary

The battle of Gettysburg, PA, July 3, 1863(hand-colored lithograph by Currier and Ives)

Everyone probably learned about the Battle of Gettysburg while they were in school. What everyone remembers depends upon your interest in history and the Civil War. I happen to be quite interested in both (albeit being far from an expert).

This week marks the 150th anniversary of one of the most pivotal (and bloodiest) battles fought during the Civil War. On July 1, 1863, the Union and Confederate armies met by accident just west of Gettysburg, PA. This was the first of three days of fighting. Union General George R. Mead's 85,000 troops eventually defeated Confederate General Robert E. Lee's 65,000 troops.

General Lee's Army of Northern Virginia managed to escape Pennsylvania on July 4th. President Lincoln had wanted General Meade to pursue Gen. Lee, but Meade was unable to make an attempt until July 13. Even then, Meade held off due to unreliable information. Gen. Lee crossed the Potomac, and reached the safety of Virginia, on July 14th.

Over 23,000 Union soldiers and over 28,000 Confederate soldiers died during this epic battle. With the loss of so many lives, the South was all but dismantled. They were never able to recover. If the Union Army would have been able to stop General Lee from returning to Virginia, it most likely would have marked the end of the war. As it was, it marked the beginning of the end.

Many activities in Gettysburg, as well as locally, will be marking the anniversary of this important event in the history of the United States. Follow the links below to find out more about those activities, and to find out more about the Battle of Gettysburg.

-- Gettysburg National Military Park

You'll find information about anniversary events, and more about visiting the park, at this official National Park Service site.

-- Gettysburg 150th National Civil War Battle Reenactment

With 15,000 re-enactors, 400 horses, and 100 cannons.

-- Civil War Traveler

Other anniversary events happening this July throughout Pennsylvania (and across the country).

-- Senator John Heinz History Center

The History Center is having a special exhibit that takes a look at the role that Pennsylvania played in the Civil War.  It runs through January 4, 2014. Be sure to check out the Events listing.

-- Gettysburg Convention and Visitors Bureau

A list of events around the town of Gettysburg, marking the anniversary.

Here are some films and books to take a look at:

-- Gettysburg: The Final Fury by Bruce Catton

-- The Gettysburg Campaign: A Study in Command by Edwin B. Coddington

-- The Killer Angels by Michael Shaara
    (fictionalized account of the battle)

-- Gettysburg: The Last Invasion by Allen C. Guelzo

-- A Field Guide to Gettysburg by Carol Reardon

-- Gettysburg 

This 1993 film was adapted from Michael Shaara's book The Killer Angels.

-- Post by Tracy