Demographics

Could You Have Won the Battle of Gettysburg?

One of the most important battles of the U.S. Civil War -- and indeed of all U.S. history -- was the Battle of Gettysburg. During the three days (July 1-3, 1863), the country held its collective breath. The struggle between the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia commanded by Robert E. Lee and the Union Army of the Potomac under General George Meade may have ultimately decided the war.

If the South had won a major victory, some historians believe that it would have caused:
the Confederacy to gain international recognition and support from England and France,
humiliated Abraham Lincoln,
and resulted in a negotiated end to the war on the Confederacy's terms.

This simulation of the battle is a test to pit your decisions as Robert E. Lee against what actually happened.
Many historians write that this battle was not Lee's best battle and that certain choices could have dramatically improved the fate of his army on these three critical days.

Enjoy the simulation - and tell your friends!

The Road to Gettysburg

Lee's Army of Northern Virginia is at peek condition and ready for a fight. However, the Confederacy is slowly losing the ability to make good on battlefield losses due to a near total Union land and navy blockade. The Confederacy must seek a successful conclusion to the war while there is still time and sufficient forces to do so. General Lee believes that a conclusion cannot be made until the Union army is brought into a grand battle and destroyed in detail somewhere North of Washington D.C.

In June 1863, after more than two years of bloody conflict the Confederate army of Northern Virginia, with Robert E. Lee commanding, slips across the Potomac to begin the invasion of the North. It is an army of 70,000 men. They move slowly behind the Blue Ridge using the mountains to screen their movements. Their objective is to draw the Union army out into the open where it can be destroyed.

Late in June, the Union army of the Potomac, composed of 80,000 men, turns north from Virginia to begin the great pursuit up the narrow roads across Maryland and into Pennsylvania.

General Lee knows that a letter has been prepared by the Southern government. A letter which offers peace. It is to be placed on the desk of Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, the day after Lee has destroyed the Army of the Potomac.

This simulation is based on historical maps that show the position of Confederate and Union forces during the battle.

The maps and their style are based on the West Point Atlas series used to train military cadets for centuries at the United States Military Academy (West Point).

Opposing military forces are shown as different colored lines or dots. The longer or thicker the line, the more troops they represent.
In this case, Red lines indicate Confederate (Southern) troops and Blue lines represent Union (Northern) troops.

Straight lines, like those below, indicate infantry and artillery forces. Dots represent cavalry patrols (in this case, Union cavalry since they are blue in color). These usually represent lightly guarded flanks of an army or forward scouts.

The different colors on the map indicate higher or lower elevations. White represents the lowest ground, while dark brown indicates the peaks of small hills. Ridges and hills are usually easier to defend and harder to attack. The blue lines represent creeks. The wider the blue area is, the wider the creek and the more difficult it is to cross. Roads are indicated by black lines and are important to keep open in order to receive supplies and reinforcements.

With this basic primer, you should be ready to get into the saddle and assume command of the Army of Northern Virginia!

Decision 1 of 4: The First Day of Battle: How Will You Use Your Reinforcements?

It is noon on July 1, 1863.

Confederate and Union forces have accidentally collided near the small Pennsylvania town of Gettysburg as the Southern soliders went looking for shoes.

During the morning, Confederate forces slammed into Union cavalry and infantry reinforcements in the west and pushed them backwards with both sides taking heavy losses. However, an entire corps of Confederate forces, over 20,000 men under Richard Ewell, are moving rapidly south towards Gettysburg and are threatening to overwhelm the Union right flank and thus hitting the Union forces from both sides.

You have two choices. Do you:

Choice #1:
Immediately strike the Union forces deployed to the north and press rapidly southward into the town, perhaps enabling an attack behind the western-most Union forces.

Choice #2:
Delay the attack of your northern forces to allow them time to move eastward and get even further behind the Union lines. However, this maneuver will split your forces and take 2-3 extra hours to execute.

What factors influenced your decision the most?

Decision 1 of 4: Results Significant Confederate Victory

General Ewell's Second Corps slams into the Union forces' northern flank, sending them reeling back through the town of Gettysburg. Simultaneous attacks from the west push Union forces toward Cemetery Hill and Cemetery Ridge, where they have stopped to regroup and collect stragglers.

Confederate troops have scored a sound, tactical victory, but are very tired after marching, fighting all day, and taking casualties. Union forces are in some disarray and exhausted as well, but appear to be fortifying the hilltops in the area and the high, defensible ground around Cemetery hill in the north and the Round Tops in the south.

Decision 1 of 4: Results Significant Confederate Victory

General Ewell's Second Corps conducts a "turning movement" -- refusing to engage the enemy while marching around the Union right flank. By 4 PM, his divisions slam across Rock Creek in the east to rapidly take Culp's Hill after a fierce fight and then penetrate further to the Southeast.

Union troops stubbornly hold on to the high ground of Cemetery Hill and the woods at the base of Culp's Hill, refusing to abandon their positions. Union reinforcements check further progress south of Wolf Hill and reinforce the other flank on Cemetery Ridge and the Round Tops.

Exhausted by the near-continuous day's marching and fighting, both sides pause to regroup around 7 PM.

Decision 2 of 4: Continue to Attack, or Probe and Regroup?

It is early evening on July 1, 1863.

Confederate forces have won a victory, driving Union forces from the field and onto the high ground south of Gettysburg. Both sides have suffered significant losses and units are very tired and scattered with stragglers in abundance. The day is getting late and within 3-4 hours night will have completely fallen.

Your division and Corps commanders are asking for re-supply and time to reform their regiments and brigades. Union forces are doing the same and fortifying the ridges and hilltops. Ewell's II Corps is just north of the Cemetery Hill, the key high ground in the area.

Choice #1:
Clearly instruct Ewell to rally his exhausted and scattered regiments to attack the now-fortified Union positions on Cemetery Hill. Focus all energies on the attack instead of regrouping for tomorrow or probing for intelligence.

Choice #2:
Exercise caution and allow your troops to rest and reform their regiments for assaults the next day. Send out patrols in the area to better assess Union positions and strengths, particularly their defenses on the hills.

Decision 2 of 4: Continue to Attack, or Probe and Regroup?

It is early evening on July 1, 1863.

Confederate forces have won a signifcant victory, out-flanking and driving Union forces from the field and onto the high ground south of Gettysburg. A key landmark, Culp's Hill, has been taken which now anchors the Confederate left flank and renders the Union position on Cemetery Hill more exposed.

Your division and Corps commanders are asking for re-supply and time to rest and reform their regiments and brigades. Union forces appear to be doing just that and are also fortifying the ridges and hilltops they occupy. Ewell's II Corps is just north of the Cemetery Hill and to the east on Culp's Hill.

Choice #1:
Clearly instruct Ewell to rally his scattered and tired regiments to attack the now-fortified Union positions on Cemetery Hill. Focus all energies on the attack instead of regrouping for tomorrow or probing for intelligence.

Choice #2:
Exercise caution and allow your troops to rest and reform their regiments for assaults the next day. Send out patrols in the area to better assess Union positions and strengths, particularly their defenses on the hills.

Decision 2 of 4: Results Minor Confederate Victory

General Ewell and his division commanders examine Cemetery Hill from afar and determine that Union forces have rallied and thrown up breastworks to defend the hill. While his troops are exhausted and bloodied, Ewell steels his courage and decides that an attack now is better than waiting for the Union to establish better defenses.

Personally leading elements of two divisions straight up Cememtery Hill, Ewell's II Corps takes serious casualties during the assault. Union forces inflict over three thousand more casualties but are themselves too fatigued and under-supplied to offer sustained resistance. After acquiting themselves well, they retreat south to a small rise where new fortifications are prepared. Exhuasted Confederate forces raise the Stars & Bars atop the conquered Cemetery Hill.

Confederate forces by this time are completely spent and with night falling rapidly, can no longer press the attack. With all energies bent on taking Cemetery Hill, Culp's Hill remains under Union control.

Decision 2 of 4: Results Minor Confederate Victory

General Ewell and his division commanders examine Cemetery Hill from afar and determine that Union forces have rallied and thrown up breastworks to defend the hill. Looking at his exhausted men, Ewell decides that an attack would be too costly and its chances for success too uncertain.

Patrols are sent around both Union flanks, which determine that the Union has established defenses around Culp's Hill in the northeast as well as along Cemetery Ridge to the south. Little other information is obtained due to the fatigue of the foot soldiers, numerous casualties, and the lack of Confederate cavalry trained in reconaissance.

Decision 2 of 4: Results Minor Confederate Victory

General Ewell and his division commanders examine Cemetery Hill from afar and determine that Union forces have rallied and thrown up breastworks to defend the hill. While his troops are exhausted and bloodied, Ewell steels his courage and decides that an attack now -- particularly since they have already captured Culp's Hill to the East -- is better than waiting for the Union to establish better defenses.

Personally leading elements of two divisions straight up Cememtery Hill, Ewell's II Corps takes major casualties during the assault. Confederate flanking fire from Culp's Hill, however, inflicts high Union casualties. (Continued below map).

Union forces inflict over 3,000 casualties and fight heroically to hold the ground. After a savage fight among the tombstones, Union forces retire just to the south. Exhausted Confederate forces raise the Stars & Bars atop newly-conquered Cemetery Hill while fresh Union reinforcements begin new entrenchments. Other Union reinforcements fortify their flanks along the Baltimore Pike and Cemetery Ridge.

Confederate forces by this time are completely spent and with night falling rapidly, can no longer press the attack. However, after an intensive day of fighting, Confederate forces hold the key northern high ground and can observe almost all Union positions and movements.

Decision 2 of 4: Results Minor Confederate Victory

General Ewell and his division commanders examine Cemetery Hill from afar and determine that Union forces have rallied and thrown up breastworks to defend the hill. Looking at his exhausted men, Ewell decides that an attack would be too costly and its chances for success too uncertain. Besides, the taking of Culp's Hill affords a strong position from which to begin any new attacks tomorrow.

Patrols are sent around both Union flanks, which determine that the Union has established very strong defenses on Cemetery Hill as well as along Cemetery Ridge. Little other information is obtained due to the fatigue of the foot soldiers, numerous casualties, and the lack of Confederate cavalry trained in reconaissance.

Decision 3 of 4: Where to Attack With the 20,000 men of the Confederate I Corps?

It is noon on July 2, 1863.

Your most trusted general, James Longstreet, has arrived bringing with him two full divisions of troops. They have been marching all morning and can now be committed to battle. Union forces have also been arriving throughout the night and morning and have extended their flanks and increased their defensive preparations.

To the south, in a major oversight, the Union has apparently left the hills of "Little" and "Big Round Top" undefended. A major opportunity is at hand to flank the Union left.

However, while Union troops are more numerous in the East in the vicinty of the Baltimore Pike, your possession of Cemetery Hill affords some clear fields of fire on Union positions. Capturing Culp's Hill and turning the Union right flank south of Wolf Hill might allow the South to envelop part of the Union army.

Choice #1:
Attack the Union left flank. Strike the exposed Union positions near the Peach Orchard while moving rapidly to occupy the key positions of Little and Big Round Top.

Choice #2:
Attack the Union right flank. Move to the vicinity of Wolf Hill and assault both Culp's Hill and the Union line of communications along the Baltimore Pike.

Decision 3 of 4: Where to Attack With the 20,000 men of the Confederate I Corps?

It is noon on July 2, 1863.

Your most trusted general, James Longstreet, has arrived bringing with him two full divisions of troops. They have been marching all morning and can now be committed to battle.

Likewise, Union forces have also been arriving throughout the night and morning and have extended their flanks and increased their defensive preparations. In a major oversight, however, they have apparently left the hills of "Little" and "Big Round Top" undefended. A major opportunity is at hand to flank the Union left.

Choice #1:
Attack as rapidly as possible. Strike the exposed Union positions near the Peach Orchard while moving rapidly to occupy the key positions of Little and Big Round Top before Union reinforcements can strengthen the line.

Choice #2:
Take three extra hours to march Longstreet's troops further south to more completely envelop the Union left flank. Avoid immediate combat near the Peach Orchard and instead, give the order to avoid Union scouts and attack the completely undefended far left flank.

Decision 3 of 4: Where to Attack With the 20,000 men of the Confederate I Corps?

It is noon on July 2, 1863.

Your most trusted general, James Longstreet, has arrived bringing with him two full divisions of troops. They have been marching all morning and can now be committed to battle. Union forces have also been arriving throughout the night and morning and have extended their flanks and increased their defensive preparations.

To the south, in a major oversight, the Union has apparently left the hills of "Little" and "Big Round Top" relatively undefended. A major opportunity is at hand to flank the Union left.

Union troops are more numerous and fortified in the East just south of Cemetery and Culp's Hill as well as along the Baltimore Pike. However, since you hold the hills in this area, it allows you clear fields of fire on Union positions and the ability to easily see Union movements. Attacking further south from Culp's Hill and capturing major parts of the Baltimore Pike might allow the Southern army to put itself between Washington D.C., and the Union army.

Choice #1:
Attack the Union left flank. Strike the exposed Union positions near the Peach Orchard while moving rapidly to occupy the key positions of Little and Big Round Top.

Choice #2:
Attack the Union right flank. Move to the vicinity of Wolf Hill and assault Union forces south of Culp's Hill and the Union line of communications along the Baltimore Pike.

Decision 3 of 4: Where to Attack With the 20,000 men of the Confederate I Corps?

It is noon on July 2, 1863.

Your most trusted general, James Longstreet, has arrived bringing with him two full divisions of troops. They have been marching all morning and can now be committed to battle. Union forces have also been arriving throughout the night and morning and have extended their flanks and increased their defensive preparations.

To the south, in a major oversight, the Union has apparently left the hills of "Little" and "Big Round Top" relatively undefended. A major opportunity is at hand to flank the Union left.

Union troops are more numerous and fortified in the East just south of Culp's Hill and along the Baltimore Pike. However, attacking further south from Culp's Hill and capturing major parts of the Baltimore Pike might allow the South to envelop part of the Union army and leave their positions on Cemetery Hill isolated.

Choice #1:
Attack the Union left flank. Strike the exposed Union positions near the Peach Orchard while moving rapidly to occupy the key positions of Little and Big Round Top.

Choice #2:
Attack the Union right flank. Move to the vicinity of Wolf Hill and assault Union forces south of Culp's Hill and the Union line of communications along the Baltimore Pike.

Decision 3 of 4: Results Minor Confederate Defeat

Longstreet's I Corps marches and countermarches to avoid Union observation until finally, the attack begins in the afternoon. Union General Sickles' III Corps is shattered in the Peach Orchard. Seeing the deteriorating situation, General Warren of the Union V Corps moves his men into position to defend the high ground of the Round Tops.

Rebel troops assault both hilltops ferociously and swing some troops even further south along the Taneytown road. After intense fighting among the rocks and trees throughout the day and evening, no Confederate breakthrough occurs but the Union right has been pushed back severely and their forces are in a precarious situation. (Continued below map)

In the vicinity of Cemetery Hill, Confederate forces under General Ewell attempt to storm Union fortifications on Culp's Hill. Prepared Union positions and heavy artillery support beat back the waves of attacks and forestall any further rebel gains in the area.

Both sides have suffered enormous casualties. The flanks of the Union army have held but the battle is not yet decided. As night falls, the final reinforcements of both armies continue to stream into the battlefield for the final, decisive day.

Decision 3 of 4: Results Minor Confederate Victory

Longstreet's I Corps marches east and assaults Union positions on Culp's Hill and along the east bank of Rock Creek. Union defenses along the southern edge of Culp's Hill are weak and the hill falls to Confederate forces after fierce fighting.

As Confederate forces attempt to take Rock Creek Bridge and the Baltimore Pike, Union forces rush into the area and launch intense counterattacks. Heavy fighting rages near the bridge for hours as both sides attempt to take possession of this key area. Union forces are eventually able to check the Confederate breakthrough and prevent complete envelopment. (Continued below map)

However, Confederate forces now occupy all of the high ground in the north and have taken the southern edge of Rock Creek bridge.

Both sides have suffered enormous casualties. The flanks of the Union army have held against repeated assaults but the fate of the battle is still not decided. As night falls, the final reinforcements of both armies continue to stream into the battlefield for the final, decisive day.

Decision 3 of 4: Results Minor Confederate Defeat

Longstreet's I Corps marches and countermarches to avoid Union observation until finally, the attack begins in the afternoon. Union General Sickles' Corps is shattered in the Peach Orchard. Rebel troops stream eastward, capturing Big Round Top and then attempt to storm Little Round Top at the far left of the Union line.

In a heroic stand, troops of the Union's 20th Maine repulse repeated attacks by the Confederate 15th Alabama Regiment at Little Round top, stopping the attack and holding the Union line. Other Confederate assaults in the north near Cemetery and Culp's Hill fail to capture and hold any other Union positions. (Continued below map)

Both sides have suffered enormous casualties. The flanks of the Union army have held against repeated assaults but the fate of the battle is still not decided. As night falls, the final reinforcements of both armies continue to stream into the battlefield for the final, decisive day.

Decision 3 of 4: Results Significant Confederate Victory

Longstreet's I Corps marches further south than initially planned and begin their attack in the late afternoon. Responding more slowly than anticipated, Union forces stay in the positions they held earlier in the morning.

In an outcome mirroring the Battle of Chancellorsville just months before, the Confederate forces advance rapidly and "roll up" the Union flank. Big Round Top is quickly occupied and Little Round Top is taken after a brief but intense fight. (Continued below map)

Seeing the danger of complete envelopment, Union General Warren rapidly moves his V Corps into blocking positions north of the Taneytown Road. After fierce fighting rages in the flat farmland east of the Round Tops for hours, Union and Confederate forces stop in exhaustion as more numerous Union reinforcements join the line.

The Confederate assault in the south has been checked, but now the Union position is in an extremely tenuous position and is in danger of being surrounded.

Decision 3 of 4: Results Minor Confederate Defeat

Longstreet's I Corps marches and countermarches to avoid Union observation until finally, the attack begins in the afternoon. Union General Sickles' III Corps is shattered in the Peach Orchard. Seeing the deteriorating situation, General Warren of the Union V Corps moves his men into position to defend the high ground of the Round Tops.

Rebel troops assault both hilltops ferociously and swing some troops even further south along the Taneytown road. After intense fighting among the rocks and trees throughout the day and evening, the Confederates make some solid tactical gains, but no breakthrough occurs in the south. (Continued below map)

In the vicinity of Cemetery Hill, Confederate forces attempt to attack south to break the Union center. After initial, small gains, Union reserves and heavy artillery counterattack and bring the lines back to where they were in the morning.

Both sides have suffered enormous casualties. The flanks and center of the Union army have held, but just barely, and its flanks remain exposed to renewed attack. As night falls, the final reinforcements of both armies continue to stream into the battlefield for the final, decisive day.

Decision 3 of 4: Results Minor Confederate Defeat

Longstreet's I Corps marches east and assaults Union positions south of Cemetary Hill and along the east bank of Rock Creek. Union defenses and field breastworks south of Cemetery Hill are very strong and after taking heavy casualties, Confederate forces shift their attacks further east.

As Confederate forces attempt to take Rock Creek Bridge and the Baltimore Pike, Union forces stream into area and launch intense counterattacks but it is not enough. Heavy fighting rages near the bridge for hours as both sides attempt to take possession of this key area. Eventually, Confederate forces push Union forces back and sever the direct line of communications between the Union army and Washington D.C.. (Continued below map)

However, seeing the danger of encirclement, Union forces push back Confederate forces near the Peach Orchard and divert their supplies to arrive via roads from directly south. By nightfall, Union communications to Washington D.C. have been restored.

Both sides have suffered enormous casualties. The flanks of the Union army have wavered, but the Union army has not cracked and the fate of the battle is still not decided. As night falls, the final reinforcements of both armies continue to stream into the battlefield for the final, decisive day.

Decision 3 of 4: Results Minor Confederate Defeat

Longstreet's I Corps marches and countermarches to avoid Union observation until finally, the attack begins in the afternoon. Union General Sickles' III Corps is shattered in the Peach Orchard. Seeing the deteriorating situation, General Warren of the Union V Corps moves his men into position to defend the high ground of the Round Tops.

Rebel troops assault both hilltops ferociously and attempt to swing some troops even further south but are repulsed by Union cavalry. After intense fighting among the rocks and trees throughout the day and evening, no Confederate breakthrough occurs in the south. (Continued below map)

In the north, Confederate forces attempt to storm what has become a Union fortress on Cemetery Hill. At great cost, some gains are made, but a constant stream of Union reinforcements counterattack and regain whatever ground the Southerners take.

Both sides suffer enormous casualties. The flanks of the Union army have held against repeated assaults but the fate of the battle is still not decided. As night falls, the final reinforcements of both armies continue to join the battlefield for the final, decisive day.

Decision 3 of 4: Results Minor Confederate Victory

Longstreet's I Corps marches east and assaults Union positions south of Culp's Hill and along the east bank of Rock Creek. Union defenses on Cemetery Hill are strong but after two hours, Cemetery Hill falls to persistent attacks by Ewell's II Corps. Continued attacks south are met by withering fire from newly-prepared Union fortifications on nearby Cemetery Ridge to the southwest.

As Longstreet's attack continues further east, the Confederates capture the strategic Rock Creek Bridge after intense fighting, and also capture a long stretch of the Baltimore Pike -- the Union Army's main line of communication back to Washington, D.C. (Continued below map)

Union reinforcements and artillery pour into the area around Rock Creek Bridge and after still more heavy fighting, the Confederate advance is stalled. To relieve pressure on the Union right, Union forces push back rebel troops in the vicinity of the Peach Orchard.

Both sides have suffered enormous casualties. While the Union right flank has been pushed back strongly, there is still no danger of being encircled. As night falls, the final reinforcements of both armies continue to stream into the battlefield for the final, decisive day.

Decision 4 of 4: The Last Day of Battle: Where Will You Make Your Final Attack?

It is early morning on July 3, 1863.

During the evening of July 2-3, the last, fresh division of the Army of North Virginia arrived under the command of General George Pickett. Other divisions of A. P. Hill's III Corps, which fought on the first day of battle, are reformed and rested and available for action.

Your army is tired and bloodied, but you have a final opportunity to make one more strong attack.

You have two choices. Do you:

Choice #1:
Attack the Union left near the Round Tops. The Union center is too well-defended with artillery and breastworks, and too easy for the Federals to reinforce. The Union may be most vulnerable just east of the Round Tops and a successful attack could threaten to encircle the Northerners.

Choice #2:
Attack the Union right south of Wolf Hill. The far Union right near the Rock Creek Bridge has not been vigorously assaulted and while the terrain is more difficult to traverse, a successful attack could threaten encirclement and force the Union army to withdraw.

Decision 4 of 4: The Last Day of Battle: Where Will You Make Your Final Attack?

It is early morning on July 3, 1863.

During the evening of July 2-3, the last, fresh division of the Army of North Virginia arrived under the command of General George Pickett. Other divisions of A. P. Hill's III Corps, which fought on the first day of battle, are reformed and rested and available for action.

Your army is tired and bloodied, but you have a final opportunity to make one more strong attack.

You have two choices. Do you:

Choice #1:
Attack the Union left near the Round Tops. The Union center is too well-defended with artillery and breastworks, and too easy for the Federals to reinforce. The Union may be most vulnerable just east of the Round Tops and a successful attack could threaten to encircle the Northerners.

Choice #2:
Attack the Union right south of Wolf Hill. While combat here has been fierce, one more push could break through the Union lines and not only cut their communications but also threaten encirclement from the east.

Decision 4 of 4: The Last Day of Battle: Where Will You Make Your Final Attack?

It is early morning on July 3, 1863.

During the evening of July 2-3, the last, fresh division of the Army of North Virginia arrived under the command of General George Pickett. Other divisions of A. P. Hill's III Corps, which fought on the first day of battle, are reformed and rested and available for action.

Your army is tired and bloodied, but you have a final opportunity to make one more strong attack. You have three choices. Do you:

Choice #1:
Attack the Union center. After repulsing attacks on both flanks, you reason that the Union center must be weak. A successful attack there would shatter the Union army and possibly rout it.

Choice #2:
Attack the Union left again in the vicinity of the Round Tops. After coming so close to victory by attacking in the south yesterday, you believe that one more strong push to capture the Round Tops would flank the Union army and send it retreating in disorder.

Choice #3:
Withdraw in good order. You have lost nearly 20% of your army already, and most if not all of the larger Union army is on the field. You believe that no attack can produce a decisive victory and thus another time and place would yield better odds.

Decision 4 of 4: The Last Day of Battle: Where Will You Make Your Final Attack?

It is early morning on July 3, 1863.

During the evening of July 2-3, the last, fresh division of the Army of North Virginia arrived under the command of General George Pickett. Other divisions of A. P. Hill's III Corps, which fought on the first day of battle, are reformed and rested and available for action.

Your army is tired and bloodied, but you have a final opportunity to make one more strong attack. You have three choices. Do you:

Choice #1:
Attack the Union left. After strong progress yesterday, you believe another push in the same area could almost encircle the Union army or at least force it to withdraw in disorder.

Choice #2:
Attack the Union right. You believe your adversary is most concerned about the situation near the Round Tops and has weakened his right flank. A successful attack here could possibly encircle portions of the Union army.

Choice #3:
Withdraw in good order. You have lost nearly 20% of your army already, and most if not all of the larger Union army is on the field. While you are in a strong position, you are outnumbered and the Union maybe able to counter any further attacks.

Decision 4 of 4: The Last Day of Battle: Where Will You Make Your Final Attack?

It is early morning on July 3, 1863.

During the evening of July 2-3, the last, fresh division of the Army of North Virginia arrived under the command of General George Pickett. Other divisions of A. P. Hill's III Corps, which fought on the first day of battle, are reformed and rested and available for action.

Your army is tired and bloodied, but you have a final opportunity to make one more strong attack.

You have two choices. Do you:

Choice #1:
Attack the Union left east of the Round Tops. The Union center is too well-defended with artillery and breastworks, and too easy for the Federals to reinforce. The Union may be weakest just east of the Round Tops on the flat terrain there and a successful attack could threaten to encircle the Northerners.

Choice #2:
Attack the Union right south of Wolf Hill. The area near the Rock Creek Bridge has not been heavily assaulted yet, and a push here may so weaken the Union position as to force their withdrawal, or even encircle them.

Decision 4 of 4: The Last Day of Battle: Where Will You Make Your Final Attack?

It is early morning on July 3, 1863.

During the evening of July 2-3, the last, fresh division of the Army of North Virginia arrived under the command of General George Pickett. Other divisions of A. P. Hill's III Corps, which fought on the first day of battle, are reformed and rested and available for action.

Your army is tired and bloodied, but you have a final opportunity to make one more strong attack.

You have two choices. Do you:

Choice #1:
Attack the Union left near the Peach Orchard. The Federal troops there are in relatively exposed positions and with their right flank already pressed near Rock Creek Bridge, success here could threaten to envelop them.

Choice #2:
With the Union army firmly fixed in place at Gettysburg, and with the Baltimore Pike under your control, you have a clear road to Baltimore and Washington, D.C. You could detach Longstreet with 15,000 men to make a bold raid on these key northern cities and perhaps compel the Union into peace negotiations.

Decision 4 of 4: The Last Day of Battle: Where Will You Make Your Final Attack?

It is early morning on July 3, 1863.

During the evening of July 2-3, the last, fresh division of the Army of North Virginia arrived under the command of General George Pickett. Other divisions of A. P. Hill's III Corps, which fought on the first day of battle, are reformed and rested and available for action.

Your army is tired and bloodied, but you have a final opportunity to make one more strong attack.

You have two choices. Do you:

Choice #1:
Attack the Union left near the Round Tops. The Union center is too well-defended with artillery and breastworks, and too easy for the Federals to reinforce. The Union may be weakest just near the Round Tops and a successful attack could threaten to encircle the Northerners.

Choice #2:
Attack the Union right near Wolf Hill. The area near Rock Creek Bridge has not been vigorously assaulted and while the terrain is more difficult to traverse, a successful attack could threaten encirclement and force the Union army to withdraw.

Decision 4 of 4: The Last Day of Battle: Where Will You Make Your Final Attack?

It is early morning on July 3, 1863.

During the evening of July 2-3, the last, fresh division of the Army of North Virginia arrived under the command of General George Pickett. Other divisions of A. P. Hill's III Corps, which fought on the first day of battle, are reformed and rested and available for action.

Your army is tired and bloodied, but you have a final opportunity to make one more strong attack.

You have two choices. Do you:

Choice #1:
Attack the Union left near the Peach Orchard. The Union center is too well-defended with artillery and breastworks, and too easy for the Federals to reinforce. The Union may be most vulernable just east of the Round Tops on flat terrain and a successful attack could threaten to encircle the Northerners.

Choice #2:
Attack the Union right south of Wolf Hill. The area near the Rock Creek Bridge has been pushed back, but another push may so weaken the Union position as to force their withdrawal, or even encircle them.

Decision 4 of 4: Results Significant Confederate Victory

On the afternoon of July 3rd, a thunderous artillery barrage opened fire on the Union center. Northern guns returned the fire with solid effect, but were then ordered to cease after an hour and a half to convince the rebels that the artillery preparation had been successful. Little did they realize that it was a diversion.

Over fifteen thousand soldiers of Pickett's division and brigades from the Confederate I and III Corps surged toward the Union left flank, smashed into it, and sent it falling back. This was the attack the Union commander, George Meade, had expected, but a desperate fight ensued as all reserves were thrown into the battle.

The Confederate army had the advantages of flat terrain to the south and control of Cemetery Hill. The latter afforded clear views of the Union positions and movement of their reserves as well as fields of fire for rebel artillery that had been placed on the high hill. (Continued below map)

After four hours of intense combat and the threat of encirclement, the Army of the Potomac began a rapid retreat back towards Washington D.C.. The untroubled Union right flank provided a clear avenue of retreat and Meade used it skillfully. Both sides suffered over twenty thousand killed, wounded, or captured each -- nearly a quarter of their respective army's strengths.

The battle was over. The Army of the Potomac had lost again and the Confederates had a significant tactical victory, but not a decisive victory so complete that it could end the war. Most of the the Union troops would live to fight another day.

The rebels rampaged throughout Pennsylvania over the next two months but could not force the North to capitulate. By the following spring, the campaign had moved back into Virginia with a new Union general in charge, Ulysses S Grant.

Decision 4 of 4: Results Significant Union Victory

On the afternoon of July 3rd, a thunderous artillery barrage opened fire on the Union center. Northern guns returned the fire with solid effect, but were then ordered to cease after an hour and a half to convince the rebels that the artillery preparation had been successful. Little did they realize that it was a diversion.

Over fifteen thousand soldiers of Pickett's division and brigades from the Confederate I and III Corps surged toward the Union right flank, smashed into it, and sent it falling back beyond the Baltimore Pike. The Union commander, General George Meade, had expected an attack from the opposite direction and was caught unaware.

However, the length of the march and Union control of the high ground at Culp's Hill allowed him to spot the rebel movements and shift his forces to avert disaster. The Confederate army was able to capture Rock Creek Bridge and capture a sizeable piece of the Baltimore Pike. (Continued below map)

After four hours of intense combat the front stabilized. The Union positions, though battered, remained strong and General Meade was not forced to withdraw. Both sides suffered over twenty thousand killed, wounded, or captured each -- nearly a quarter of their respective army's strengths.

The battle was over. The Army of the Potomac had held its ground and forced what was, in essence, a draw. The South had lost perhaps its last, best chance, to end the war on its terms. The next day, July 4, the rebel army retreated south into Virginia.

Decision 4 of 4: Results Significant Union Victory

On the afternoon of July 3rd, a thunderous artillery barrage opened fire on the Union center. Northern guns returned the fire with solid effect, but were then ordered to cease after an hour and a half to convince the rebels that the artillery preparation had been successful. Little did they realize that it was a diversion.

Over fifteen thousand soldiers of Pickett's division and brigades from the Confederate I and III Corps surged toward the Union right flank, smashed into it, and sent it falling back beyond the Baltimore Pike. The Union commander, General George Meade, had expected an attack from the opposite direction and was caught unaware.

However, the length of the march and Union control of the high ground at the Round Tops enabled him to spot the rebel movements and shift his forces to avert disaster. With great effort, the Confederate army managed to capture Rock Creek Bridge and a sizeable piece of the Baltimore Pike. (Continued below map)

After four hours of intense combat the front stabilized. The Union positions, though battered, remained strong and General Meade was not forced to withdraw since his left flank and the Taneytown Road was secure. Both sides suffered over twenty thousand killed, wounded, or captured each -- nearly a quarter of their respective army's strengths.

The battle was over. The Army of the Potomac had held its ground and forced what was, in essence, a small tactical Southern victory. But strategically, the South had lost perhaps its last, best chance to end the war on its terms. The next day, July 4, the rebel army retreated south into Virginia.

Decision 4 of 4: Results Significant Confederate Victory

On the afternoon of July 3rd, a thunderous artillery barrage opened fire on the Union center. Northern guns returned the fire with solid effect, but were then ordered to cease after an hour and a half to convince the rebels that the artillery preparation had been successful. Little did they realize that it was a diversion.

Over fifteen thousand soldiers of Pickett's division and brigades from the Confederate I and III Corps smashed into the Union left south and east of the Round Tops. This was the attack the the Union commander, General George Meade, had expected and immediately threw his reserves into the fray. (Continued below map)

Fighting raged along the Taneytown pike for over five hours as the Confederate forces struggled to break through and envelop the Union forces. Meade began to withdraw his forces from the pocket and with valiant efforts of the Union rearguard, was able to escape with most of the army. Over 4,000 Union prisoners were taken, however, in the vicinity of Cememtery Hill.

The Army of the Potomac was sent reeling backward towards Washington D.C. where it licked it wounds while Lee burned out many parts of Pennsylvania and even Baltimore. Lee had scored a major victory, but not so complete that it destroyed the Union army and forced a negotiated peace. The Union losses were eventually replaced, the war dragged on even longer, but soon, a new Union General named Ulysses S Grant was in charge and Lee would never again invade the North.

Decision 4 of 4: Results Decisive Union Victory

All of your decisions have repeated the actual course of events that transpired 144 years ago . . .

On the afternoon of July 3rd, a thunderous artillery barrage opened fire on the Union center. Northern guns returned the fire with solid effect, but were then ordered to cease their fire after an hour and a half to convince the rebels that the artillery preparation had been successful.

Over ten thousand soldiers of Pickett's division and brigades from the Confederate III Corps surged forward towards Cemetery Ridge. The Union commander, General George Meade, actually believed the final assault would again fall on his left flank and placed his reserves there. However, the relatively small size of the Confederate attack, the exposed terrain, and the ferocity of the Union defense doomed the attack. (Continued below map)

What became known as "Pickett's Charge" ended in failure. After it breached the Union lines on Cemetery Ridge for just a moment, counterattacks sent the assaulting troops reeling back to their starting positions. Both sides suffered over twenty thousand killed, wounded, or captured each during the terrible three days -- nearly a quarter of their respective army's strengths.

The battle was over. By not winning a decisive victory, the South had lost perhaps its last, best chance, to end the war on its terms. The next day, on July 4th, the rebels retreated south towards Virginia. They would never again invade the North.

Decision 4 of 4: Results Significant Union Victory

On the afternoon of July 3rd, a thunderous artillery barrage opened fire on the Union center. Northern guns returned the fire with solid effect, but were then ordered to cease their fire after an hour and a half to convince the rebels that the artillery preparation had been successful. Little did they realize that it was a diversion.

Over fifteen thousand soldiers of Pickett's division and brigades from the Confederate I and III Corps surged forward towards the Round Tops and the flat ground beyond. The Union commander, George Meade, had anticipated this attack and most of his reserves were available to resist the assault. (Continued below map)

George Pickett's men were able to penetrate further up the Taneytown Pike and gain over a half-mile of territory, but Union counterattacks were steady and numerous. As night fell, the Union lines stabilized and held, again, with no clear victor. Both sides suffered over twenty thousand killed, wounded, or captured each -- nearly a quarter of their respective army's strengths.

The battle was over. The Army of North Virginia had scored some tactical successes on the battlefield, but by not winning a decisive victory, the South had lost perhaps its last, best chance to end the war on its terms. The next day, on July 4th, the rebels retreated south towards Virginia. They would never again invade the North.

Decision 4 of 4: Results Decisive Union Victory

On the afternoon of July 3rd, a thunderous artillery barrage opened fire on the Union center. Northern guns returned the fire with solid effect. Little did they realize that it was a diversion to cover the army's retreat.

Over fifteen thousand soldiers of Pickett's division and brigades from the Confederate I and III Corps conducted small raids and spoiling attacks to keep Union forces in place. General George Meade, the Union commander, believed another attack would strike his left flank and was in no mood to launch his own advance.

With little fanfare, the Southern army cleanly disengaged from the battlefield, carefully covered by J. E. B. Stuart's cavalry screen and Pickett's men. Confederate losses were less than those of the Union, but more than 15% of the rebel army was killed, wounded, or missing. Almost 20% of the Union army had been casualties. (Continued below map)

The battle was over. The Army of North Virginia had scored some tactical successes on the battlefield, inflicted greater damage than it had received, and withdrawn in good order.

By not winning a decisive victory, however, the South had lost perhaps its last, best chance, to end the war on its terms. The next day, on July 4th, the rebels retreated further south towards Virginia. They would never again invade the North.

Decision 4 of 4: Results Significant Confederate Victory

On the afternoon of July 3rd, a thunderous artillery barrage opened on the Union center. Northern guns returned the fire with solid effect, but were then ordered to cease after an hour and a half to convince the rebels that the artillery preparation had been successful. Little did they realize that it was a diversion.

Over fifteen thousand soldiers of Pickett's division and brigades from the Confederate I and III Corps surged toward the Union left flank, smashed into it, and sent it falling back. This was the attack the Union commander, General George Meade, had expected, but a desperate fight ensued as all reserves were thrown into the battle.

The Confederate army had the advantages of flat terrain and the command of the Round Tops. The latter afforded clear views of the Union positions and movement of their reserves as well as fields of fire for rebel artillery that had been placed on the high hills. (Continued below map)

After four hours of intense combat and the threat of encirclement, the Army of the Potomac began a rapid retreat back towards Washington D.C.. Both sides suffered over twenty thousand killed, wounded, or captured each -- nearly a quarter of their respective army's strengths.

The battle was over. The Army of the Potomac had lost again and the Confederates had a significant tactical victory, but not a decisive victory so complete that it could end the war. The rebels rampaged throughout Pennsylvania over the next two months but could not force the North to capitulate. By the following spring, the campaign had moved back into Virginia with a new Union general in charge, Ulysses S Grant.

Decision 4 of 4: Results Significant Confederate Victory

On the afternoon of July 3rd, a thunderous artillery barrage opened fire on the Union center. Northern guns returned the fire with solid effect, but were then ordered to cease after an hour and a half to convince the rebels that the artillery preparation had been successful. Little did they realize that it was a diversion.

Over fifteen thousand soldiers of Pickett's division and brigades from the Confederate I and III Corps surged toward the Union right flank, smashed into it, and sent it falling back beyond the Baltimore Pike. The Union commander, General George Meade, had expected an attack from the opposite direction and was caught unaware.

However, the length of the march and Union control of the high ground to spot the rebel movements allowed Meade to shift his forces to avert disaster. The Confederate army was able to capture Rock Creek Bridge and capture a sizeable piece of the Baltimore Pike. (Continued below map)

After four hours of intense combat and the threat of encirclement, the Army of the Potomac escaped and began a rapid retreat back towards Washington D.C. -- barely escaping the noose Lee had crafted. Both sides suffered over twenty thousand killed, wounded, or captured each -- nearly a quarter of their respective army's strengths.

The battle was over. The Army of the Potomac had lost again and the Confederates had a major tactical victory, but not a decisive victory so complete that it could end the war. The rebels rampaged throughout northern Pennsylvania over the next two months but could not force the North to capitulate. By the following spring, the campaign had moved back into Virginia with a new Union general in charge, Ulysses S Grant.

Decision 4 of 4: Results Significant Union Victory

On the afternoon of July 3rd, a thunderous artillery barrage opened fire on the Union center. Northern guns returned the fire with solid effect. Little did they realize that it was a diversion to cover the army's retreat.

Over fifteen thousand soldiers of Pickett's division and brigades from the Confederate I and III Corps conducted small raids and spoiling attacks to keep Union forces in place. General George Meade, the Union commander, believed another attack would strike his vulnerable left flank in the south and was in no position to launch his own assaults.

With little fanfare, the Southern army cleanly disengaged from the battlefield, covered by J. E. B. Stuart's cavalry screen and Pcikett's infantry. Confederate losses were less than those of the Union, but more than 15% of the rebel army was killed, wounded, or missing. Almost 20% of the Union army were casualties. (Continued below map)

The battle was over. The Army of North Virginia has scored some tactical successes on the battlefield, inflicted greater damage than it had received, but had withdrawn when it still might have been able to achieve a significant victory. Many would later claim that Lee had lost his best chance to end the war on Confederate terms and granted the Army of the Potomac a surprising reprieve.

The next day, on July 4th, the rebels retreated further south towards Virginia. They would never again invade the North.

Decision 4 of 4: Results Significant Union Victory

On the afternoon of July 3rd, a thunderous artillery barrage opened fire on the Union center. Northern guns returned the fire with solid effect, but were then ordered to cease their fire after an hour and a half to convince the rebels that the artillery preparation had been successful. Little did they realize that it was a diversion.

Over fifteen thousand soldiers of Pickett's division and brigades from the Confederate I and III Corps surged toward the Union left flank, smashed into it, and sent it falling back. This was the attack the Union commander, George Meade, had expected, but a desperate fight ensued as all reserves were thrown into the battle.

The Confederate army had the advantages of flat terrain and the command of Culp's and Cemetery Hill in the north. The hills afforded clear views of the Union positions and movement of their reserves as well as fields of fire for rebel artillery that had been placed there. (Continued below map)

After four hours of intense combat the Union lines somehow held and the Confederate advance halted. The untroubled Union right flank provided a clear line of communications back to Washington D.C. and the army held firm. Both sides suffered over twenty thousand killed, wounded, or captured each -- nearly a quarter of their respective army's strengths.

The battle was over and tactically a draw. The Army of the Potomac had held its ground and not been forced from the field, thus preventing a decisive rebel victory that could have end the war. Denying them this had earned the Union a significant strategic victory.

The rebels withdrew the following day and by fall, the campaign had moved back into Virginia with a new Union general in charge, Ulysses S Grant.

Decision 4 of 4: Results Decisive Confederate Victory

On the afternoon of July 3rd, a thunderous artillery barrage opened fire on the Union center. Northern guns returned the fire with solid effect, but were then ordered to cease hour and a half to convince the rebels that the artillery preparation had been successful. Little did they realize that it was a diversion.

Over fifteen thousand soldiers of Pickett's division and brigades from the Confederate I and III Corps surged toward the Union right flank, smashed into it, and sent it falling back beyond the Baltimore Pike. The Union commander, General George Meade, had expected an attack from the opposite direction and was caught unaware.

Longstreet's other divisions on the Union left were able to reach the Taneytown Road and cut it off for hours until driven partially back by intensive, but very costly Union cavalry charges. In the east, the Pickett was able to capture Rock Creek Bridge and a sizeable slice of the Baltimore Pike. (Continued below map)

After four hours of intense combat and near-total encirclement, the Army of the Potomac began a headlong flight back towards Washington D.C.. The Union Army did not completely escape and ended up losing losing over 10,000 men as prisoners near Cemetery Ridge.

The battle was over and it had been a disaster for the Army of the Potomac. The rebels rampaged throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and even into New York over the next month. Great Britain and France recognized the Confederacy as a nation and shortly thereafter and President Lincoln began to seek a negotiated end to the war -- on Southern terms.

The South had won the war at Gettysburg.

Decision 4 of 4: Results Decisive Confederate Victory

On the afternoon of July 3rd, a thunderous artillery barrage opened fire on the Union center. Northern guns returned the fire with solid effect, but were then ordered to cease their fire after an hour and a half to convince the rebels that the artillery preparation had been successful. Little did they realize that it was a diversion.

Over fifteen thousand soldiers of Pickett's division and brigades from the Confederate I and III Corps surged toward the Union left flank, smashed into it, and sent it falling back. This was the attack the Union commander, George Meade, had expected, but a desperate fight ensued as all reserves were thrown into the battle.

The Confederate army advanced to the base of the Round Tops but the difficult terrain and Union reserves prevented any further progress. The Union right was in difficult straits since the rebel troops had seized the Baltimore Pike and were threatening encirclement. (Continued below map)

After four hours of intense combat and near-total encirclement, the Army of the Potomac began a headlong retreat back towards Washington D.C.. The Union Army did not completely escape and ended up losing losing over 5,000 men as prisoners near Cemetery Ridge that could not move south fast enough.

Through superior mobility and aggressive use of initiative, the battle was a clear Confederate victory and a disaster for the Army of the Potomac. The rebels rampaged throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and even into New York over the next month. Great Britain and France recognized the Confederacy as a nation and shortly thereafter, President Lincoln began to seek a negotiated end to the war -- on Southern terms.

The South had won the war at Gettysburg.

Decision 4 of 4: Results Decisive Union Victory

On the afternoon of July 3rd, a thunderous artillery barrage opened fire on the Union center. Northern guns returned the fire with solid effect, but were then ordered to cease after an hour and a half to convince the rebels that the artillery preparation had been successful. Little did they realize that it was a diversion.

Over fifteen thousand soldiers of Pickett's division and brigades from the Confederate I and III Corps feinted toward the Union right flank but then advanced southeast towards Baltimore. Federal cavalry attempted to stop them, but failed against the combined arms of rebel infantry, cavalry, and artillery.

While the situation at Gettysburg was a stalemate, Meade was ordered to withdraw back to Washington D.C. to protect the capitol. Longstreet was able to capture Baltimore for a few days and burn most of it, but Meade's counterattack and the Southern forces' poor supply situation quickly forced the Confederate I Corps to rejoin the Army of North Virgnia further west. (Continued below map)

Several weeks of inconclusive posturing in Pennsylvania and Maryland ensued, but a major battle was avoided by both sides due to the horrendous casualties already suffered -- over 20,000 each. Eventually, with supplies running ever lower, the Confederate army was forced to retire back to Virginia closer to its source of men and material.

Through superior mobility and aggressive use of initiative, the battle was a tactical Confederate victory. However, the Union army persevered and prevented a complete defeat that could have ended the war. By winter, a new Union General named Ulysses S Grant was in charge in the east and never again would Lee's army invade the North.

Decision 4 of 4: Results Significant Union Victory

On the afternoon of July 3rd, a thunderous artillery barrage opened fire on the Union center. Northern guns returned the fire with solid effect, but were then ordered to cease after an hour and a half to convince the rebels that the artillery preparation had been successful. Little did they realize that it was a diversion.

Over fifteen thousand soldiers of Pickett's division and brigades from the Confederate I and III Corps surged toward the Union left flank, smashed into it, and sent it falling back. This was the attack the Union commander, George Meade, had expected, but a desperate fight ensued as all reserves were thrown into the battle.

The Confederate army had the advantages of flat terrain and Culp's Hill in the north. The latter afforded clear views of the Union positions and movement of their reserves as well as fields of fire for rebel artillery that had been placed on the high hills. (Continued below map)

After four hours of intense combat the Union lines held and the Confederate advance halted. The untroubled Union right flank provided a clear line of communications back to Washington D.C. and the army held firm. Both sides suffered over twenty thousand killed, wounded, or captured each -- nearly a quarter of their respective army's strengths.

The battle was over and tactically a draw. The Army of the Potomac had held its ground and not been forced from the field, thus preventing a decisive rebel victory that could have end the war. Denying them this had earned the Union a significant strategic victory.

The rebels withdrew the following day and by fall, the campaign had moved back into Virginia with a new Union general in charge, Ulysses S Grant.

Decision 4 of 4: Results Significant Union Victory

On the afternoon of July 3rd, a thunderous artillery barrage opened fire on the Union center. Northern guns returned the fire with solid effect, but were then ordered to cease after an hour and a half to convince the rebels that the artillery preparation had been successful. Little did they realize that it was a diversion.

Over fifteen thousand soldiers of Pickett's division and brigades from the Confederate I and III Corps surged toward the Union right flank, smashed into it, and sent it falling back beyond the Baltimore Pike. The Union commander, General George Meade, had expected an attack from the opposite direction and was caught unaware.

However, the length of the march and Union control of the high ground at the Round Tops enabled him to spot the rebel movements and shift his forces to avert disaster. The Confederate army was, however, able to capture Rock Creek Bridge and capture a sizeable piece of the Baltimore Pike. (Continued below map)

The Union left held, however, and kept a clear line of communications back to Washington D.C. via the Taneytown Road. While its situation was not ideal, the Union army had not been forced off the field. Both sides suffered over twenty thousand killed, wounded, or captured each -- nearly a quarter of their respective army's strengths.

The battle was over. The Army of North Virginia has scored some tactical successes on the battlefield, but by not winning a decisive victory, the South had lost perhaps its last, best chance, to end the war on its terms. The next day, on July 4th, the rebels retreated south towards Virginia. They would never again invade the North.

Decision 4 of 4: Results Significant Confederate Victory

On the afternoon of July 3rd, a thunderous artillery barrage opened fire on the Union center. Northern guns returned the fire with solid effect, but were then ordered to cease after an hour and a half to convince the rebels that the artillery preparation had been successful. Little did they realize that it was a diversion.

Over fifteen thousand soldiers of Pickett's division and brigades from the Confederate I and III Corps surged toward the Union left flank, smashed into it, and sent it falling back beyond the Tenytown Road. The Union commander, General George Meade, had expected an attack from this direction and deployed his reserves into the fight.

The Confederate army was able to retain control of the Rock Creek Bridge on the Union right while pushing hard on the left. Fearing complete encirclement, the Union army rapidly began to evacuate its positions and withdrew headlong to the vicinity of Washington D.C., (Continued below map)

Both sides suffered over twenty thousand killed, wounded, or captured each -- nearly a quarter of their respective army's strengths. In addition, the Union rearguard lost over 3,000 prisoners in the vicinity of Cemetery Hill as the trap fell partially closed.

The battle was over. The Army of the Potomac had suffered a major defeat but most of it would live to fight another day. The rebels rampaged throughout Pennsylvania over the next two months but could not force the North to capitulate. By winter, the campaign had moved back into Virginia with a new Union general in charge, Ulysses S Grant.

Decision 4 of 4: Results Significant Union Victory

On the afternoon of July 3rd, a thunderous artillery barrage opened fire on the Union center. Northern guns returned the fire with solid effect, but were then ordered to cease after an hour and a half to convince the rebels that the artillery preparation had been successful. Little did they realize that it was a diversion.

Over fifteen thousand soldiers of Pickett's division and brigades from the Confederate I and III Corps surged toward the Union right flank, smashed into it, and sent it falling back beyond the Baltimore Pike. The Union commander, General George Meade, had expected an attack from the opposite direction and was caught unaware.

However, the length of the march and Union control of the high ground at the Round Tops enabled him to spot the rebel movements and shift his forces to avert disaster. The Confederate army was, however, able to capture Rock Creek Bridge and capture a sizeable piece of the Baltimore Pike. (Continued below map)

After four hours of intense combat the front stabilized. The Union positions, though battered, remained strong and General Meade was not forced to withdraw since his left flank, the Taneytown Road, and Emmitsburg Pike were secure. Both sides suffered over twenty thousand killed, wounded, or captured each -- nearly a quarter of their respective army's strengths.

The battle was over. The Army of the Potomac had held its ground and forced what was, in essence, a draw. But strategically, the South had lost perhaps its last, best chance, to end the war on its terms. The next day, July 4, the rebel army retreated south into Virginia.

Congratulations on fighting the battle of Gettysburg!