Why Did Robert E. Lee Not Attack Earlier Than Pickett's Charge During the Battle of Gettysburg?

The Battle of Gettysburg was a pivotal moment in the Civil War, but it is often misunderstood. Many believe that Confederate General Robert E. Lee did not attack earlier than Pickett's Charge because he was overly reliant on the bravery of his troops. However, a closer look at the events reveals a more complex and strategic narrative.

Lee's Strategic Intentions

Contrary to popular belief, Confederate President Jefferson Davis did indeed urge Lee to invade the North, which was a critical component of the Confederate strategy. The objective was to bring political pressure to bear on Northern politicians and force them to reconsider their commitments to the war effort. By invading Pennsylvania, Lee aimed to secure rich agricultural resources for the Confederate troops, exploit the psychological effect of a Northern invasion, and potentially capture Washington, D.C., to claim a significant victory in the Civil War.

Day 1: The Clash of Forces

The battle began on July 1, 1863, when General J.E.B. Stuart's cavalry encountered Union forces led by George Armstrong Custer, leading to the famous Fairfield Skirmish. This initial contact spurred Lee to dispatch his troops, led by General A.P. Hill, into an attack on Union troops who had already secured strategic positions like Cemetery Hill. Despite the early engagements, Lee's army did not achieve a decisive breakthrough. The day ended with significant casualties on both sides, while Lee's forces initially gained ground but could not maintain it.

Day 2: Pummeling the Union Left

On the second day of the battle, July 2, 1863, Lee initiated a more focused assault on the Union left flank, targeting areas like the Peach Orchard, Devil's Den, and Little Round Top. The Barksdale Charge was particularly noteworthy, as it came very close to breaking the Union line. The fighting at Little Round Top was particularly fierce and narrow, with Union troops, notably the 20th Maine Volunteer Infantry Regiment, playing a crucial role in holding the position. The battle was as much a test of endurance and strategy as it was of bravery.

Day 3: The Fateful Pickett's Charge

The final day of the battle on July 3, 1863, saw Lee's most ambitious move, the famous Pickett's Charge. This coordinated assault involved over 12,000 Confederate soldiers crossing roughly 1,500 yards under heavy Union artillery and rifle fire. The charge was ultimately unsuccessful, with high casualty rates and little gain, marking a decisive turning point in the battle. Despite these setbacks, Lee did not stand still and await defeat. His attacks continued across the entire battlefield, including a frontal assault on Union lines at Cemetery Ridge, demonstrating his commitment to the fight.

Analysis and Conclusion

It is clear that Lee did attack throughout the three-day battle, with his objective being to wear down the Union forces and secure a decisive victory. The plan to launch Pickett's Charge was part of this broader strategy, and it can be argued that Lee's attacks were as decisive and critical as Pickett's Charge itself. Lee's decision-making was driven by the belief that every engagement was a potential turning point, and his bravery and conviction in his troops' capabilities were evident throughout the battle.

Key Takeaways

1. Confederate President Jefferson Davis's urging for the invasion of the North was a strategic move to apply military pressure on the Union. 2. Lee attacked on all three days of the battle, employing various strategies to wear down Union forces. 3. Pickett's Charge, while iconic, was part of a longer and more complex series of attacks and was driven by strategic objectives.

The Battle of Gettysburg was as much a testament to the tactics and bravery of both sides as it was a demonstration of the broader strategic decisions made by Confederate and Union generals alike. By understanding the context and the full picture of the battle, one can appreciate the complexity and significance of Robert E. Lee's actions, including his continuous efforts to attack until the very end.