The Battle of Gettysburg, fought from July 1st to 3rd, 1863, was a pivotal moment in the American Civil War. Understanding the opposing armies' order of battle – the organization and deployment of their troops – is crucial to comprehending the tactical decisions, battlefield maneuvers, and ultimate outcome of this decisive engagement. This article will detail the order of battle for both the Union (Army of the Potomac) and Confederate (Army of Northern Virginia) armies, focusing on the major corps and divisions involved.
I. The Union Army of the Potomac (Major General George G. Meade)
The Army of the Potomac, under the newly appointed command of Major General George G. Meade, arrived at Gettysburg somewhat piecemeal, reacting to the unfolding Confederate advance. Its overall structure comprised several corps, each with multiple divisions, further subdivided into brigades and regiments. The sheer size and complexity of this army make a full breakdown impractical within this scope, but highlighting key components provides a valuable understanding.
A. I Corps (Major General John Newton): Primarily tasked with holding the Union left flank on July 1st, I Corps suffered heavy casualties during the initial Confederate assault. Its position on McPherson's Ridge proved crucial in slowing the Confederate advance and buying time for the rest of the army to arrive.
B. II Corps (Major General Winfield S. Hancock): II Corps played a critical role on both July 1st and 2nd. Initially engaged in the fighting at Gettysburg's western end, they were later instrumental in defending Cemetery Ridge on the second day, particularly against the ferocious attacks on Little Round Top. Hancock's leadership and the unwavering defense of this crucial point were pivotal in securing the Union left.
C. III Corps (Major General Daniel Sickles): Sickles' III Corps, positioned on the Union left center on the second day, made a controversial decision to advance forward from its assigned position on Cemetery Ridge, leading to a disastrous engagement at the Peach Orchard and Devil's Den. This ill-advised advance significantly weakened the Union line and resulted in heavy casualties.
D. V Corps (Major General George Sykes): Sykes' V Corps primarily held the Union center on Cemetery Ridge. They provided vital support during the Confederate assaults on July 2nd and 3rd, effectively repelling attacks against their sector.
E. VI Corps (Major General John Sedgwick): Arriving later than other corps, VI Corps was initially positioned on the Union right flank and played a significant supporting role, helping to repel Confederate attacks.
II. The Confederate Army of Northern Virginia (General Robert E. Lee)
The Army of Northern Virginia, commanded by General Robert E. Lee, was divided into several corps, each with a distinct role in the overall battle plan. Like the Union army, its internal structure was complex, but focusing on the key corps clarifies the Confederate strategy.
A. I Corps (Lieutenant General James Longstreet): Longstreet's I Corps, known for its conservative approach, formed the right wing of Lee's army. On July 2nd, they launched significant attacks on the Union left flank, targeting Little Round Top and the Peach Orchard.
B. II Corps (Lieutenant General Richard S. Ewell): Ewell's II Corps, generally considered more aggressive than Longstreet's, carried the main burden of the Confederate attack on July 1st, capturing the crucial positions of McPherson's Ridge and Cemetery Hill. However, their failure to take Cemetery Hill proved a critical turning point.
C. III Corps (Lieutenant General Ambrose P. Hill): Hill's III Corps participated in the initial assault on July 1st, and on July 3rd, they formed the core of Pickett's Charge, the infamous frontal assault that marked the culmination of the battle. The staggering losses suffered by this Corps during Pickett's Charge effectively sealed the Confederate defeat.
D. Cavalry Corps (Major General J.E.B. Stuart): Stuart's cavalry played a significant role in screening the Confederate army's movements and conducting reconnaissance. However, his prolonged absence from the main army during the first day of the battle proved a significant strategic disadvantage.
III. Summary
The Battle of Gettysburg's outcome was shaped significantly by the deployment and interaction of these opposing armies. The Union's superior numbers and better defensive positioning, combined with resolute leadership, proved decisive against the Confederate offensive. Although Lee's army displayed remarkable tactical skill and courage, their ill-fated assaults on July 2nd and 3rd, particularly Pickett's Charge, ultimately resulted in a devastating defeat, marking a turning point in the Civil War. The detailed understanding of the order of battle provides crucial insight into the planning, execution, and consequences of this historic clash.
IV. FAQs
1. Why was the Union order of battle less organized on the first day? The Union army arrived at Gettysburg piecemeal, reacting to the Confederate advance rather than executing a pre-planned deployment.
2. What was the significance of Little Round Top? Securing Little Round Top prevented the Confederate army from flanking the Union left and potentially collapsing the entire Union line.
3. What role did cavalry play in the battle? Cavalry played a crucial role in reconnaissance and screening movements, but its effectiveness was hampered by logistical issues and tactical decisions.
4. How did the terrain influence the battle's order of battle? The hilly terrain of Gettysburg dictated troop placement and significantly affected the flow and outcome of the fighting.
5. What were the major consequences of Pickett's Charge? Pickett's Charge resulted in catastrophic Confederate casualties, effectively ending their offensive capabilities and marking the high water mark of the Confederacy.
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