ePub Zen Sourcebook: Traditional Documents from China; Korea; and Japan by From Brand: Hackett Pub Co in History

Description

The Battle of Gettysburg exerts a unique hold on the national imagination. Many writers have argued that it represented the turning point of the Civil War; after which Confederate fortunes moved inexorably toward defeat. Successive generations of historians have not exhausted the topic of leadership at Gettysburg; especially with regard to the first day of the battle. Often overshadowed by more famous events on the second and third days; the initial phase of the contest nevertheless offers the most interesting problems of leadership. In this collection of essays; the contributors examine several controversial aspects of leadership on that opening day including Lee’s strategy and tactics; the conduct of Confederate corps commanders Richard S. Ewell and A.P. Hill; Oliver Otis Howard’s role on the Union side; and a series of notable debacles among Lee’s brigadiers. Drawing on a range of sources; the authors combine interpretation and fresh evidence that should challenge readers to reconsider their understanding of the vents of July 1; 1863.