For our returning viewers, these are the same productions as before, just with our new American Battlefield Trust opening. We wanted a more cohesive look moving forward as our audience continues to grow. As always we appreciate your support and look forward to continuing to share our passion for American history.
@@henrygerman7858 Every time I try to respond, I end up writing an essay, in the interests of being as thorough as I can. That being said, I have no idea if you'd bother to read a lengthy reply, so I will keep it short and forgo an in-depth explanation and if you wish to discuss it further, I will happily comply. The short answer is; it can be inferred at 1:10 that Lee is already at Gettysburg and waiting for Meade, which couldn't be further from the truth. Gettysburg is not where Lee's army was nor was it ever part of his invasion plan. It's easier to understand why Gettysburg was fought the way it was if we understand the situation leading up to it.
One thing I didn’t realize about Gettysburg until visiting the town is how absolutely MASSIVE the battlefield is. It’s the entire town and miles of land surrounding it.
aye, amazing we can watch everyone on 1 map ... hard to imagine how the generals or the men on the field even visualized things back then the general could be imagining the forces/ground one way, when in reality it is completely different ... (at least without having the high ground where he can literally see everything)
Yes the battlefield of Gettysburg covers some 25 sq miles of land that encompasses the town, fields to the west of town and land directly south of town is the primary area of fighting. The no man’s land between the armies was somewhere between 3/4 of a mile to 1.25 miles depending on the location on the battlefield you are standing.
Its amazing how well Meade read the battlefield and adjusted troops constantly during the battle. He definitely won the tactical battle and Lee's hubris allowed for a decisive victory.
Yup and Lee played right into his hands. Longstreet argued a redeployment. He knew the army would have to walk almost a mile and half to attack the union main force. Another words suicide. Just crazy.
@@tovarishlumberjack2356 it shattered the last bit of offensive power the army or Northern Virginia had. It also ensured Lincoln’s reelection. Not quite Napoleon at Austerlitz, but the Confederacy died that day. They just didn’t know it quite yet.
Gettysburg is a place you really have to visit to appreciate. A lot of the stones put up by the soldiers for cover are still there, exactly as they were. And the view from Little Round Top shows exactly why it was so important, that whoever held that spot would win the battle.
I have actually walked the distance from the Virginia memorial on Seminary Ridge over to Cemetery Ridge. It's a little bit of a walk. To have made that walk, with completely no cover, under fire from massed artillery and then massed (rifled) musket fire and grapeshot or canister, would have been horrific. The men who made it to the Union lines had nerves of steel.
Michah Knepper I know what you mean because like I had some ancestors that were living right behind little round top during the battle and like their houses were used as field hospitals for the union army.
Same as the pallisade cliffs in NJ the bottom park underneath the GWB has an old stone wall with oblong holes every ten feet that was from the patriots shooting at the British ships
I am from Vietnam and I love to read about history. I saw this video at midnight while killing time to wait for the first semi-final of the Euro. I was urged to open up Red Dead Redemption 2 but somehow this video just caught all of my attention and I actually spent more time reading about General Meade and Chamberlain. Thanks for the great video!!! Hope everyone reading this has a good day :>
I lived within driving distance to Gettysburg. When you visit the park, one cannot be moved enough and feel the tremendous pain. I have a true reverence for those who fought here.
@@holdyourhorses9842 I did the self guided tour several years ago just before my sister's wedding there. The information is incredible but a person can't truly understand the scope of the battle until they actually stand on the battlefield. That's a truly humbling experience.
The visitor center did an amazing job of introducing you to what happened there. As I toured the massive area, I was very glad I took the time to watch the lighted map used to show what happened. That was more than 30 years ago and I imagine what I saw has been replaced with something better, but do not visit there without first familiarizing yourself with the events and the timing of them.
I know what you mean because I have met people from Europe who are very interested in American history and i am so interested in American history because I never knew that my 6x 5x 4x and 3x great grandfathers were part of American history and also how my 3x great uncle and aunt were part of history
I was there (Not during the Battle, of course) and this is gut wrenching. You can still see trenches and walls. You can actually feel what happened there. It’s profound. Moving. I believe the kids today would say “Epic”.
Unfortunately kids and young adults today wouldn't feel what happened there. They would be too busy mindlessly staring at Tik Tok videos and protesting this great country they live in. Pride for the US and it's history among citizens born after 1995 or so, is dead.
@@CheekyMenace Kids aren't born that way. Not to mention stereotyping an entire generation or generations of your own countrymen is disappointing. My son loves history because I taught it to him, instead of expecting someone else to do it. The pursuit of the almighty dollar led to more focus on business interests than the necessities of citizenship. Selfishness has won out over community, and that's on the heads of parents who failed to spend time passing on lessons of civics instead of trying to make more money.
It is! I live not too far from there-maybe an hour or so. It's like you can walk around and can just sense the past everywhere. For me it's subtle, shadowed just underneath the surface, as if two parallel realities are happening at the same time, superimposed upon each other. Maybe it's in my imagination, but it feels like more than that.
@@df5295 Not you imagination at all. I felt someone tap me on the shoulder at Big Round Top and again at the Covered Sachs Bridge. The sorrow was so tangible.
Thank you so much. I’ve been watching many videos but had trouble visualizing the troop movements. I’ll watch this several times to really be familiar. I have a big motivator. My great grandfather, Solomon Walter Gedney of the 20th NY State Militia fought there and survived with a shot to the calf. He attended the 25th, 50th and 75th reunions. His regiment was renamed the 80th NY and apparently he wanted someone in the family to clarify his record because his memory sure lives in me. I really appreciate this overview and thanks again. Joan Williamson
Was that a milk calf or a beef calf? Seriously tho, he's lucky that is all he got. An injury like that seems so small to us now, but these armies marched everywhere, no riding trucks and trains.
If anyone else has ever been there, you know that feeling you get. I have never had such a somber, gut-wrenching feeling for anything that I did not experience first hand in all of my life. There are really no words to describe it.
I know the feeling I haven't been there but I've been to Dallas to the school book depository building I had a indescribable feeling throughout my body I looked threw the window where the shots were fired from and it is such a easy shot to make with a rifle I got goosebumps
When I was visiting the US I‘ve been to Gettysburg, Antietam, Bull Run and Fredericksburg. It was very interesting. Keep up the good work in preserving those battlefields for future generations.
I'm from Timor-Leste and I love reading into the US civil war. It showed the brutality and carnage of warfare while also demonstrating epic courage, noble principles and magnanimity of the eventual winners. Lessons for everyone. Viva TL!
You citizens of East Timor greatly suffered at the hands of the muslims some 15 years ago? Hopefully all are living in mutual peace now. Pray to God you are.
@John Francis No, we suffered at the hands of a brutal Indonesian dictator and his oppressive regime. Our struggle was never against Islam, nor ordinary Indonesians (who suffered as much as we did under Suharto). Our heroic war of liberation echoes the valor and justice that lay at the heart of the North's response to southern treachery. Two distant theatres that chime in unison.
I wish we had this in my high school history days. I am Canadian and lived in Toronto and our history teacher organized a trip to Washington and specifically to Gettysburg. This makes that memory more valuable. What sacrifice.
Sad video. I live by Gettysburg. Devils Den is pretty spooky at night. I’ve climbed in between the rocks at night. Eire feelings there. Little round top is cool as well. It is a must visit.
Hello, I am a french fan of American History, and this horrific battle makes me think of a three days battle of Austerlitz. The CS infantry has been destroyed by a major movement of the professionnal soldiers of the US troops. Long live the american-french brotherhood!!
Sending our regards to your late countryman Gilbert du Motier , Marquis de Lafayette. I'm a big fan. Who knows, without his help maybe we would still be driving on the road and eating Chips instead of French Fries. He even assisted much so in his home country leading eventually to your beautiful queen's barber taking a little too much when she asked for a shorter haircut.
I live by Chickamauga battlefield and my home is on a battle site. We have dug hundreds of fired bullets and canister shot in our yard. Amazing history all of it. American Battlefield Trust is doing a good job bringing the battles to video. Thank you
Going to Gettysburg was an amazing experience, and I hope to go back someday. There are still bullet holes in a lot of the houses. Very nice little town, too
You said it regarding the bullets in the house and when you go back to Gettysburg I would recommend you to check out the shriver house museum which is in the town of Gettysburg and the shriver house was the house where one of my 3rd great grand aunts and uncles and two of my 1st cousins 4x removed lived and I would totally recommend going to it because of what happened in the house during the battle and what I mean by that is when the battle began my family members left the house and went to my 4th great grandparents house which was behind the eastern slope of little round top however while my family members were at my 4th great grandparents place the confederates occupied the house but when you tour the museum you get to go into the attic and in the attic confederates set up a sharpshooters nest from which they were able to fire at the union gun crews on cemetery hill and the people who currently run the place have found proof that corroborates my story of it being used as a confederate sharpshooters nest and the proof is that in the attic they found sharpshooter bullets and on the floorboards of the attic was found human blood.
I've read about the battle of Gettysburg, read about Sickles advance into the peach orchard and his later justification of the move, and I even recall reading about the Union troops being positioned in a "sort of fishhook" arrangement. But this clear video with its marching red and blue rectangles and smoking guns helped me fully understand the battle for the first time. That flintlock, though, was bit jarring to see in a war of mostly percussion-fired weapons. One thing missing: the Strategy of Lee. Had Lee cleared out Gettysburg, his army would have had a clear group of roads straight to the US Capitol, and the Civil War could have ended within a month. As it was, he broke his army trying to capture superior high ground that was defended by troops as brave as any in the world. Meade understood that he simply had to block Lee's advance to win; there was no need for Meade to attack Lee on the fourth day, so he didn't. I was glad to hear a bit about the Maine regiments bayonet charge; they failed to mention those Maine boys were all mostly out of ammunition, so it was a very courageous order, and a very courageous bayonet charge.
In my opinion, desperation was the key to many Confederate victories. Many times they were left with no other option's, other than to charge with knives out, or throw rocks, etc. What do they say? "Fortune favors the bold." With that kind of reasoning, it would make sense to bayonet charge, when out of ammo. The 20th Maine evidently decided to fight the same way the Confederates would fight. Charge down hill, leave the high ground, to stop another push. For a Union regiment, it was very rare of them to just think something up, and do it. That was a bold move, using Confederate tactics, and it payed off. On the other hand, Lee took on Union tactics of marching into fire from an elevated position. Now that was brilliant. No matter how much I study the war, no matter how much I learn, I will never understand Pickett's charge.
@@dennismartin5821 To that point, the Confederates had not lost a battle. Some speculate they had an air of invincibility which may have religious and cultural implications, thus leading them recklessly into peril.
Yes, that is possible. Bear in mind, many of them may have just considered themselves superior in strength, and ability, to the Union troops. They may have held such belief in their own star, that in a way it aided them in combat.
Have you been to Gettysburg? If not and if you ever go, I recommend viewing the diorama of the battlefield located in the town itself before traveling the sites. It really helped me to understand what I would see later on. I also recommend getting the guided tour CD to play at you drive from spot to spot. it's excellent and easy to use.
The Great Debate: Could Lee have taken Washington? The simple answer: No. By 1863 Gettysburg was the most fortified city on EARTH. Had Lee succeeded in splitting the Union Army, the southern half would've immediately headed south along the Baltimore Pike directly to DC. Also Lee's army was practically decimated by then. One more thing: The Vicksburg campaign ended the next day and Rosecran's army wasn't yet committed to the Chattanooga campaign; thousands of western troops could've been moved by rail and ship to DC and arrived within 10 days if DC was seriously threatened. However, the political implications are what might have given the South a strategic victory.
Have been to Gettysburg a number of times, the first being July 1-4, 1993. Sat alone atop Little Round Top, as the sun set to the west. A surreal experience.
One point that seems to be missing is the fact that at one point the Union General in charge of Artillery called to halt firing because both sides were missing, and he didn't want to waste ammunition and this gave the Confederates the idea that their artillery fire had knocked out that of the Union. So when Picket moved forward with his division he was under the assumption that there would be no further artillery fire from the Union side.
The other note about that is Gen. Hunt wanted to stop the cannons like you said and argued with Gen. Hancock who wanted to keep the cannon firing to keep the morale of his men from faltering.. Hunt won.. He had control of the Artillery. Hancock was a junior General at the time. Only taking over the 2nd Corp May 22 1863
Yes, good sense on the part of Hunt exacerbated the situation for Pickett. But did it matter in the big picture? Longstreet did not have the authority to simply call off the attack. He already voiced strong objections to Lee. It was much much easier for the AoP to scramble reinforcements into position and bring up more ammunition for their cannon, than the ANV. Any delay favored Meade. Even if Lee had the ammunition to bring forward and continue the barrage, he could not let the clock keep ticking.
Thanks for that great video! I m italian but i love american history: for me this battle was one of most important for the Union's victory. (Sorry for my english! )
If you get a chance you should visit Gettysburg National Military Park. The visitor's center there is amazing and you can walk over the entire battleground. Plus the park rangers who are guides there really know their stuff.
@@leifjohnson617 you're right! plus it's really humbling walking over the same grass that hundreds of thousands of people gave their lives for only ~150 years ago.
I live there. I walk different parts of the battlefield, mostly near Gettysburg College, or over by Culp's Hill. It's an amazing piece of history, and you can feel that history as you walk the fields.
Just re-watched the 1993 movie a couple days ago. There's a legitimate reason why that film is such a classic, and why it's almost universally considered one of the greatest, if not THE greatest, American Civil War movies of all time.
@@trajan231 I haven't watched it in forever, and only one time, but I'd say... probably not. Whereas any of the Hobbit films could be a decent 90 minute film, but trapped within a 3 hour bloated mess, I felt G&G was just pro-Confederate propaganda trapped in a 3 hour bloated mess.
@@damonmosier3651 It should've followed Gettysburg and focussed on the greatest Confederate victory in the war, the Battle of Chancellorsville. If they had gone with the back story, then they should have focussed on 1st Bull Run. Either way, they were probably trying to build up Confederate momentum going into Gettysburg.
This is astonishing content. Its amazing to me how all this information was gathered and mapped out.i can only imagine how much hard work, time and dedication went into this. Thumbs ALL the way up👍👏
What a great documentary! What a historical battle! The courage these men had to advance under enemy fire, seeing you comrades fall and the still keep on going. Picket's charge is my favourite!
Blame Stuart for taking the cavalry for a joy ride. He had taken the cavalry behind Union lines and was not present to provide reconnaissance that would have probably led Lee to a different tactic. Lee lacked the information good cavalry would have provided. As such, he fell back on what he knew and what he could see. What he could see was two strong positions connected by what appeared to be a weak line of men. He had no idea of the reinforcements sitting behind them. Lee went with the standard military training of the day. A maneuver from no less than Napoleon of attacking the weak middle and enveloping/destroying the strong ends in turn. The maneuver was valid and proven, and doomed to failure in the face of the technological advances of firepower since Napoleon first used it. Lee made the plan, and gave the order, so ultimately the blame is his. But several factors came together to contribute to this Union victory.
As a foreigner, may I thank you for this animation. It made my understanding of the scope of the battle. I have copy of the magnificent movie made on that hallowed ground and I shall watch it again and again. All honour to the soldiers of both sides, the dead, the wounded and the survivors.
I had been to Gettysburg few times and I don't know if is just me but I can felt the soldiers spirit around me. So many people died in such horrific way on that place.
One of my favorite channels on RUclips. Thanks for sharing these and trying to give a better understanding of what the country was like and what these brave young men gave their lives so easily for. Keep up all the great videos ☺👍
If you're interested in the Civil War you should come to Virginia the whole state of Virginia was a Battlefield why they don't promote history here I have no clue
Those animated graphics are very impressive and impactful, providing deeper, strategic insights of how this legendary battle was conducted. And I’ll always be amazed at how close the Rebels came to winning the most pivotal, epic battle of the entire war. What a major struggle for both sides.
I've been to Gettysburg many times. I was born, raised, and still live in central PA. Gettysburg is a beautiful place with it's scenery, but yet, it's also a somber and solemn place. To see the battlefield can give one chills and tears. I don't agree with the South's stance on slavery, but when you look across the field where Pickett's Charge happened, you need to admire and respect the courage it took to follow those orders. From Cemetery Hill, Seminary Ridge, Big and Little Round Top, Devil's Den, Culp's Hill..etc...you appreciate the Union winning The Battle of Gettysburg and ultimately the Civil War to preserve and reunite The United States of America. Next year, July 1st, 2nd, and 3rd 2023 will be the 160th Anniversary of The Battle of Gettysburg. I had at least 9 ancestors fight for The North during The Civil War. May God Bless and Rest Their Souls.
Thanks for your videos, you made and excellent job. I'm italian and I have been studying the american civil war for many years, but I always had problems to understand the course of the battles by reading from the books. Now the stages of the battles are really clearer to me. Sorry for my bad english and greetings from Italy
I just took my family to Antietam and they were amazed. My daughter really enjoyed the video and the park rangers were a pleasure to chat with. I haven't been back to Gettysburg since I was a boy but plan on going back for a weekend once school starts. I did the audio tour on cassette with my parents and I never forgot it. Truly an otherworldly place.
Attended a re-enactment at Antietam with my brother and we were also amazed. The battlefield smoke was crazy thick and with so much going on we had regiments walking right up on us visitors. We were like dang this was serious!
Visiting Gettysburg, you are overwhelmed by the number of monuments and places to see and it is difficult to grasp how it all came down. This video is SO well done; you actually can see WHERE the battle took place in the areas of this town. Thank you for producing it!
I’ve been to Gettysburg a couple of times and every time that I go there it feels brand new. It is just crazy the amount of soldiers from both sides who perished on that battlefield. There is so much history that just comes from this one single battle in American history that it is insane. American Battlefield Trust, y’all have done so much to help and preserve this battlefield that you are honoring the soldiers who fought and I thank you for that! History now a days(especially Civil War) is starting to slowly be forgotten that it is just heartbreaking. It is nice to see that organizations such as y’all are doing this to help teach and preserve the history of the war and the battle.
these animations help clear up my appreciation of this battle. After reading "Killer Angels", and watching this video i feel better informed . thank you
I just visited Gettysburg with my family a couple weeks ago and found it fascinating, although I had a bit of a hard time imagining how the battle had played out. This video helps immensely, thanks for making it
I was stationed in APG, Maryland. During my last 2 wks in service, I took 3 days leave to Spend at Gettysburg. On the last morning, I went to Little Round Top at sunrise. I could feel an oppressiveness, as I viewed the area between LRT and Devil's Den. You know that the fighting was savage there.
as a member and a reenactor i finds these videos a great teaching tool when i am talk to school age children gettysburg was and is the most important battle in the civil war .
Hard to believe my great great grandfather Joshua Jackson fought at Gettysburg and a few other major battles and survived. His grandfather which is mine removed 4 times fought the english in the revolutionary war too.
I think of my Grandfather, who fought in WW1, lived in a time to hear Civil War stories direct from it's veterans. Wish I would have asked him so many questions. I do remember him saying that men who fought in these two wars wished no man to have to fight a war again.
Thank you for showing this. It gives me thankfulness and appreciation for the men and women who fought to keep this country together. May the Southern soldiers rest in peace too. They too fought for a cause. We are in a Civil War now. Civil War 2.0 Information War and rewriting history. I will fight for my country.
This is by far one of the most extensive and interesting battle recreations I have ever seen. I am not one to fact check, but it seems like a great deal of research went into this and I appreciate that. The representation was objective, and did not over sensationalize the horrors of that battle. That said, it was still a very "real" depiction of war and it is difficult to see Americans killing one another. That is not something I want to see happen now or in the past. Either way, thank you for making such a concise and...I hate to say the word "entertaining," but that is how I would describe this video. Let's just hope we don't revert to the past or repeat any part of the civil war...at the same time, we can't move forward without knowing where we came from.
@@TomCook-jw6ur "Rebel" is a kind word for them. They weren't "defending their nation." Their nation was the United States of America, and they turned their allegiance and their guns against it. The correct word for them is "traitors."
Well what good is an election if entire states decide to up and leave because they lost, even though they lost fair and square? They weren't being oppressed in any way shape or form. The very idea of the Constitution becomes meaningless at that point.
I've had two incredibly humbling experiences in my life ( I'm 64 ) . One was visiting the Gettysburg battlefield . The other was the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor . I cherish those memories despite the tears they bring !
I was very humbled visiting the USS Arizona and showing the name of a family member on the memorial to my son and daughter and showing them hes entombed below us. My daugher wept as did I..
Two of my great great grandfathers served in AP Hill's 3rd Corps with the Georgia 35th. They joined the Army of Northern Virginia in 1861 and were both present at Appomattox in April 1865. Had either not made it home, much of my family would not exist.
I’m a huge fan of history and love to travel. I’ve been to Gettysburg twice, and both times it’s like visiting a focal point where time stopped. It’s as if the town is still in 1863. The battlefield is so well preserved while still bearing battle scars on the landscape and surrounding buildings. You’re not visiting a town, you are in a living breathing museum. And if the history isn’t your fancy. The 360 degree views of the landscape, local breweries, Mom ‘n’ Pop shops, and restaurant taverns aught to be. One fact I always find interesting is that they have recovered several musket balls that have been fused together mid flight. Meaning they were fired directly at each other at the same time. When you see the shear size of the battle and take that into account. Only then can you understand just how massive and dangerous it would’ve been to stand in that exact viewing spot on July 1-3, 1863.
Go to Gettysburg and you can walk out part of the way from the tree line where pickets men formed and waited then moved out into their lines, with glasses you can see the where the union lines are including the corner.. the perspective is amazing , i cannot see how anyone could move that far under cannon fire then shot and expect to survive.. that feeling stayed with me for some time.. my heart goes out to those men, on both sides.
I have never been to Gettysburg but it always wanted to go. I have studied the battles greatly though. When I think about the quality of a man that it took to fight that battle, on both sides, I am amazed that the American Spirit. We can't lift this Union Fall Again under the attack cuz it's going to through now. We the citizens have nothing to do with the political war being raged but we will suffer because of it. We cannot let this happen. The battle needs to be waged at The Ballot Box.
Bob Griffith I was told by a guide in 1983 that pickets charge was 2hrs late. The plan was to move the troops under the cover of the cannon fire by the time they did it they were in full view in an open field. They were just open targets I forget how many yards. Has anyone heard of this? He was an old guide at the time and forget his name. You could hire him and he would ride around in your car and tell you show and tell you things about the battle.
I'll be going to Gettysburg for the 1st time in Sept. and my wife is going to watch this video to have an idea of what happened there so long ago. Very nicely done and easy for a non-history person to understand. Thanks for posting. JN
Make sure you watch the National Park Rangers interpretations of this battle before you go. They are here on RUclips. Little Round Top and Devils Den as well as others. Very informative. We have been to Gettysburg several times. Plan at least two days to travel around the entire battlefield to see everything. It's easier to do it on your own rather than taking a bus. You see a lot more. :). Enjoy! It's a great place. Antietam Battlefield isn't far away. I suggest a visit there also.
@@patriotmama I have watch many of them and they are all great. Can't wait to get there to view this historical battle field were so many died on both sides. It's been a life long dream to go there but never could find the time. Now I am. Thanks.
5 лет назад
It's quite an experience, walking along the landscape there. You will have a great visit.
Don't forget to visit the towns around Gettysburg too, Hanover and Lancaster, mcsherrystown and New Oxford. The battle took place in those areas as well. You can see the bullet holes in many of the buildings.
A very good job of this battle. I had a relative who fought there and watching this helps me understand how his unit was involved. He was George Washington Courtney, private, 14 Alabama Infantry Regiment, Wilcox Brigade, Anderson Division, A.P. Hill Corp. He was wounded in the foot on July 2 and was captured on July 3rd.
@@DacStudiosEntertainment Not really if you think about it. A good friend from Egypt once told me , that you can see 1000 or 1500 year old furniture being thrown away in outside trash piles in front of homes. ha ha that is older than our country, I guess time is relevant.
The National Museum they have in Gettysburg is absolutely amazing for any history buffs. They have hundreds of guns, you can tour the rock wall line that the Union took cover behind. They have a monument that shows the names of every combatant on both sides, quite humbling to stand on that kind of hallowed ground
great videos! using these videos on the civil war for homeschooling my 9th grade son. much thanks! my great great grandfather fought near wheatfield/devils den for the 14th US Infantry in the 5th Corps.
Just recently decided to start learning about the American Civil War, and this is exactly the kind of channel I’ve been looking for. I’m also currently reading Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era by James McPherson. Which is a fantastic read.
if it interests you, check out the Ken Burns produced 9 part series called simply "The civil war" It contains numerous first hand accounts from all manner of people; soldiers from both sides, politicians, newspapers, letters and diary entries from civillians. It is a goldmine. If you know less than nothing beforehand it breaks down almost everything in a clear manner, but gets you right in the feels for both sides.
What did you think about that book, Battle Cry of Freedom? I found it the best single volume history of the US Civil War. I especially appreciated the setup of many factors leading to the crisis: 250 of 1,000 pages devoted to this setup.
@@warnerchandler9826 I found it an extraordinary book on the topic and I was surprised by how much it managed to cover. I would definitely recommend it to anybody interested in the period. I personally believe anyone with an interest in military history should learn about the American Civil War, because it gives us a clear view of the development of warfare from the napoleonic era to trench warfare and what we would ultimately ended up seeing in WW1. Again, the book was great. The use of the Gatling Gun was a game changer in the world of warfare and the use of even better artillery, and better weapons changed the landscape of the battlefield forever. I still find it hard to believe that more Americans died in the Civil War than in WW1, WW2, Korea and Vietnam combined. Which is staggering.
This is an excellent video that really helps you understand the movement of troops on a large scale, something that is critical for understanding the battle on a smaller scale.
My 2nd great grandfather was in the VA 8th infantry (Army of the Potomac) and wounded but survived Pickett’s charge. He had the year before been in the battle of Antietam. I cannot imagine the horror these people endured.
This is so sad to watch. All these brave men. I don't want anyone to lose. Congratulations on a brilliant presentation. I have never seen anything to rival it.
You , sir, are an idiot. the men who fought the battles didn't fight for or against slavery; they fought for their comrades and they fought to return to their loved ones.
This is so incredibly well done. I've managed to stop at Gettysburg a couple of times but never for long enough. I plan to go back when I can make time for two full days on the battlefield and surroundings.
I've read a few accounts of the Battle of Gettysburg. I've never been able to clearly picture all the movements of the troops. This video gives me a much better idea, albeit horrific, of what happened and when. It makes me feel sicker and much more compassionate for all the Americans in the battle be they North or South. Our country lost too many fine men in the Civil War.
@@willb8684 I'm not trying find flaw. I'm saying you can't really understand these events if you don't consider the landscape. Everything from where the armies went and why, where Lee went through the mountains, and why the Union Army cavalry moving onto and holding the hilltops around Gettysburg proved decisive.
@@StereoSpace I know what you mean. Watching this, we are trying to follow the decisions that were made but we don''t have much of a picture of what the terrain was and why decisions were made the way they were.
@ 68, this is my first viewing of the animated American Civil War. What a fine production, thank you ABT and to all those involved making this video. Everything explained by the narrator very clearly, I am now looking forward to viewing many more productions. Gnr Magrath Carl John 11 Btty 2/3 Fld Regt. Royal Australian Artillery
Thank you so much for the work you do. This is the best video I have seen to date on the subject. It gives a very good feel for the conditions and flow of the battle.
I was at Gettysburg on the 123rd anniversary of the battle, which presented an interesting coincidence of the numbers (July 1/2/3, 1986). I was also graced with the same birthday as President Lincoln. I am a retired US Army officer. I felt the overwhelming loss standing in that hallowed cemetery, and my tears flowed to the point of sobbing. I believe there is an eternal spiritual presence there.
Thanks for that great video! I m brazilian but i love american history: for me this battle was one of most important for the Union's victory. (Sorry for my english! )
I had two Great Great Grand Fathers and Great great great Uncle in the Union Army At Gettysburg. I am grateful to them for saving my Nation and country.
Only to be giving it away now. What a waste of human life. Those lost souls have to be turning over in their graves when they see what is happening now to their country.
For our returning viewers, these are the same productions as before, just with our new American Battlefield Trust opening. We wanted a more cohesive look moving forward as our audience continues to grow. As always we appreciate your support and look forward to continuing to share our passion for American history.
American Battlefield Trust Its a good excuse to watch them all over again. Great work ABT!
This video needed an explanation as to why the battle was fought at Gettysburg, instead of Harrisburg, like Lee planned.
Nuts! If Hoods advice was taken early on they could have won.
@@idunbeezasmart1 Please explain why.
@@henrygerman7858 Every time I try to respond, I end up writing an essay, in the interests of being as thorough as I can. That being said, I have no idea if you'd bother to read a lengthy reply, so I will keep it short and forgo an in-depth explanation and if you wish to discuss it further, I will happily comply.
The short answer is; it can be inferred at 1:10 that Lee is already at Gettysburg and waiting for Meade, which couldn't be further from the truth. Gettysburg is not where Lee's army was nor was it ever part of his invasion plan. It's easier to understand why Gettysburg was fought the way it was if we understand the situation leading up to it.
One thing I didn’t realize about Gettysburg until visiting the town is how absolutely MASSIVE the battlefield is. It’s the entire town and miles of land surrounding it.
The lines stretched for some good miles whereas the opposition were camped out and facing each other about a mile when not engaged
aye, amazing we can watch everyone on 1 map ...
hard to imagine how the generals or the men on the field even visualized things back then
the general could be imagining the forces/ground one way, when in reality it is completely different ... (at least without having the high ground where he can literally see everything)
Yes the battlefield of Gettysburg covers some 25 sq miles of land that encompasses the town, fields to the west of town and land directly south of town is the primary area of fighting. The no man’s land between the armies was somewhere between 3/4 of a mile to 1.25 miles depending on the location on the battlefield you are standing.
Check out Manassas battlefield if you like being awe-struck
Right?
Its amazing how well Meade read the battlefield and adjusted troops constantly during the battle. He definitely won the tactical battle and Lee's hubris allowed for a decisive victory.
Yup and Lee played right into his hands. Longstreet argued a redeployment. He knew the army would have to walk almost a mile and half to attack the union main force. Another words suicide. Just crazy.
amen
Decisive?😂
@@tovarishlumberjack2356 Yes because those treasonous rebels lost the war.
@@tovarishlumberjack2356 it shattered the last bit of offensive power the army or Northern Virginia had. It also ensured Lincoln’s reelection. Not quite Napoleon at Austerlitz, but the Confederacy died that day. They just didn’t know it quite yet.
Gettysburg is a place you really have to visit to appreciate. A lot of the stones put up by the soldiers for cover are still there, exactly as they were. And the view from Little Round Top shows exactly why it was so important, that whoever held that spot would win the battle.
I have actually walked the distance from the Virginia memorial on Seminary Ridge over to Cemetery Ridge. It's a little bit of a walk. To have made that walk, with completely no cover, under fire from massed artillery and then massed (rifled) musket fire and grapeshot or canister, would have been horrific. The men who made it to the Union lines had nerves of steel.
Michah Knepper I know what you mean because like I had some ancestors that were living right behind little round top during the battle and like their houses were used as field hospitals for the union army.
Same as the pallisade cliffs in NJ the bottom park underneath the GWB has an old stone wall with oblong holes every ten feet that was from the patriots shooting at the British ships
@@johnalden5821 I stood on Cemetery Ridge and imagined Pickett's charge coming toward me. I couldn't
Went there about 16 years ago, nothing shows the importance of having the high ground in battle back then like this view did.
I am from Vietnam and I love to read about history. I saw this video at midnight while killing time to wait for the first semi-final of the Euro. I was urged to open up Red Dead Redemption 2 but somehow this video just caught all of my attention and I actually spent more time reading about General Meade and Chamberlain. Thanks for the great video!!! Hope everyone reading this has a good day :>
Try the Killer Angels book. It will bring to life the Gettysburg history from a perspective you will enjoy.
You're a good man! 🙂
Grant and Sherman are my fav generals of the war for me
I lived within driving distance to Gettysburg. When you visit the park, one cannot be moved enough and feel the tremendous pain. I have a true reverence for those who fought here.
@@holdyourhorses9842 I did the self guided tour several years ago just before my sister's wedding there. The information is incredible but a person can't truly understand the scope of the battle until they actually stand on the battlefield. That's a truly humbling experience.
The visitor center did an amazing job of introducing you to what happened there. As I toured the massive area, I was very glad I took the time to watch the lighted map used to show what happened. That was more than 30 years ago and I imagine what I saw has been replaced with something better, but do not visit there without first familiarizing yourself with the events and the timing of them.
Not being an American, I find this an excellent way of learning about the American Civil War.
Many thanks.
If you don’t mind me asking but what Nation do you live in
Me, i'm Canadian, but i have a tremendous interest in American History.
I know what you mean because I have met people from Europe who are very interested in American history and i am so interested in American history because I never knew that my 6x 5x 4x and 3x great grandfathers were part of American history and also how my 3x great uncle and aunt were part of history
@@chasemurraychristopherdola7108
Hello Chase
I'm English.
Gazza 29 oh okay because I know English people fought in the American civil war especially at Gettysburg
I was there (Not during the Battle, of course) and this is gut wrenching. You can still see trenches and walls. You can actually feel what happened there. It’s profound. Moving. I believe the kids today would say “Epic”.
Unfortunately kids and young adults today wouldn't feel what happened there. They would be too busy mindlessly staring at Tik Tok videos and protesting this great country they live in. Pride for the US and it's history among citizens born after 1995 or so, is dead.
@@CheekyMenace Kids aren't born that way. Not to mention stereotyping an entire generation or generations of your own countrymen is disappointing. My son loves history because I taught it to him, instead of expecting someone else to do it. The pursuit of the almighty dollar led to more focus on business interests than the necessities of citizenship. Selfishness has won out over community, and that's on the heads of parents who failed to spend time passing on lessons of civics instead of trying to make more money.
The site at Gettysburg is absolutely surreal. It's like stepping back in time.
It is! I live not too far from there-maybe an hour or so. It's like you can walk around and can just sense the past everywhere. For me it's subtle, shadowed just underneath the surface, as if two parallel realities are happening at the same time, superimposed upon each other. Maybe it's in my imagination, but it feels like more than that.
Well except for all the marble monuments of course!
Spooky too, but maybe that's my imagination!
Want to go back, was there as a kid. Would appreciate it more now…
@@df5295 Not you imagination at all. I felt someone tap me on the shoulder at Big Round Top and again at the Covered Sachs Bridge. The sorrow was so tangible.
The last images with the Gettysburg address quote was so perfect it gave me chills.
Thank you so much. I’ve been watching many videos but had trouble visualizing the troop movements. I’ll watch this several times to really be familiar. I have a big motivator. My great grandfather, Solomon Walter Gedney of the 20th NY State Militia fought there and survived with a shot to the calf. He attended the 25th, 50th and 75th reunions. His regiment was renamed the 80th NY and apparently he wanted someone in the family to clarify his record because his memory sure lives in me. I really appreciate this overview and thanks again. Joan Williamson
Was that a milk calf or a beef calf? Seriously tho, he's lucky that is all he got.
An injury like that seems so small to us now, but these armies marched everywhere, no riding trucks and trains.
If anyone else has ever been there, you know that feeling you get. I have never had such a somber, gut-wrenching feeling for anything that I did not experience first hand in all of my life. There are really no words to describe it.
Ever been to the Alamo?
I know the feeling I haven't been there but I've been to Dallas to the school book depository building I had a indescribable feeling throughout my body I looked threw the window where the shots were fired from and it is such a easy shot to make with a rifle I got goosebumps
@@coltc5360 Ozzy Osborne has lol.
That's what Hank Hill drinks.
@@coltc5360 Or Pearl Harbor
When I was visiting the US I‘ve been to Gettysburg, Antietam, Bull Run and Fredericksburg. It was very interesting. Keep up the good work in preserving those battlefields for future generations.
I'm from Timor-Leste and I love reading into the US civil war. It showed the brutality and carnage of warfare while also demonstrating epic courage, noble principles and magnanimity of the eventual winners. Lessons for everyone. Viva TL!
You citizens of East Timor greatly suffered at the hands of the muslims some 15 years ago?
Hopefully all are living in mutual peace now.
Pray to God you are.
@John Francis No, we suffered at the hands of a brutal Indonesian dictator and his oppressive regime. Our struggle was never against Islam, nor ordinary Indonesians (who suffered as much as we did under Suharto). Our heroic war of liberation echoes the valor and justice that lay at the heart of the North's response to southern treachery. Two distant theatres that chime in unison.
Well said
I wish we had this in my high school history days. I am Canadian and lived in Toronto and our history teacher organized a trip to Washington and specifically to Gettysburg. This makes that memory more valuable. What sacrifice.
I missed Cemetery Hill when I was there. ha ha ha.
Far better than a lot of diverse history documentaries with 45 minutes and more. Well done!
Sad video. I live by Gettysburg. Devils Den is pretty spooky at night. I’ve climbed in between the rocks at night. Eire feelings there. Little round top is cool as well. It is a must visit.
I agree with you because I went to little round top for sunset and it was beautiful
I've never been but I keep hearing rumors that it's haunted. Is there any truth to it?
@Thomas Headley Lol You're right !
@Thomas Headley Yes! True! At 78 I know that! Thanks!
decades of using the little round top as a dump spot in the bushes...sure they will tell you anything to keep on the pavement.
Hello, I am a french fan of American History, and this horrific battle makes me think of a three days battle of Austerlitz. The CS infantry has been destroyed by a major movement of the professionnal soldiers of the US troops. Long live the american-french brotherhood!!
Sending our regards to your late countryman Gilbert du Motier , Marquis de Lafayette. I'm a big fan. Who knows, without his help maybe we would still be driving on the road and eating Chips instead of French Fries. He even assisted much so in his home country leading eventually to your beautiful queen's barber taking a little too much when she asked for a shorter haircut.
huh?
Battle of Austerlitz was a one the greatest battle in Europe history! French soilders made a great victory for the France! Gj guys
American fan a of French history here. Vive L'Empereur!
At least the Union's butt was kicked as hard during Fredericksburg
As a foreigner to US history, his was a fantastic way to learn about American history, very well animated and spoken. Will have to look at some more!
I live by Chickamauga battlefield and my home is on a battle site. We have dug hundreds of fired bullets and canister shot in our yard. Amazing history all of it. American Battlefield Trust is doing a good job bringing the battles to video. Thank you
Absolutely must see battlefield. Spiritually moving and a true special place in World History. Visited last year whilst in Pennsylvania.
Wow. Superbly done. I learned more about the battle at Gettysburg from this 15+ minute video than in my entire 60+ years. Congratulations!
Going to Gettysburg was an amazing experience, and I hope to go back someday. There are still bullet holes in a lot of the houses. Very nice little town, too
You said it regarding the bullets in the house and when you go back to Gettysburg I would recommend you to check out the shriver house museum which is in the town of Gettysburg and the shriver house was the house where one of my 3rd great grand aunts and uncles and two of my 1st cousins 4x removed lived and I would totally recommend going to it because of what happened in the house during the battle and what I mean by that is when the battle began my family members left the house and went to my 4th great grandparents house which was behind the eastern slope of little round top however while my family members were at my 4th great grandparents place the confederates occupied the house but when you tour the museum you get to go into the attic and in the attic confederates set up a sharpshooters nest from which they were able to fire at the union gun crews on cemetery hill and the people who currently run the place have found proof that corroborates my story of it being used as a confederate sharpshooters nest and the proof is that in the attic they found sharpshooter bullets and on the floorboards of the attic was found human blood.
I've read about the battle of Gettysburg, read about Sickles advance into the peach orchard and his later justification of the move, and I even recall reading about the Union troops being positioned in a "sort of fishhook" arrangement. But this clear video with its marching red and blue rectangles and smoking guns helped me fully understand the battle for the first time. That flintlock, though, was bit jarring to see in a war of mostly percussion-fired weapons. One thing missing: the Strategy of Lee. Had Lee cleared out Gettysburg, his army would have had a clear group of roads straight to the US Capitol, and the Civil War could have ended within a month. As it was, he broke his army trying to capture superior high ground that was defended by troops as brave as any in the world. Meade understood that he simply had to block Lee's advance to win; there was no need for Meade to attack Lee on the fourth day, so he didn't.
I was glad to hear a bit about the Maine regiments bayonet charge; they failed to mention those Maine boys were all mostly out of ammunition, so it was a very courageous order, and a very courageous bayonet charge.
In my opinion, desperation was the key to many Confederate victories. Many times they were left with no other option's, other than to charge with knives out, or throw rocks, etc. What do they say? "Fortune favors the bold." With that kind of reasoning, it would make sense to bayonet charge, when out of ammo. The 20th Maine evidently decided to fight the same way the Confederates would fight. Charge down hill, leave the high ground, to stop another push. For a Union regiment, it was very rare of them to just think something up, and do it. That was a bold move, using Confederate tactics, and it payed off. On the other hand, Lee took on Union tactics of marching into fire from an elevated position. Now that was brilliant. No matter how much I study the war, no matter how much I learn, I will never understand Pickett's charge.
@@dennismartin5821 To that point, the Confederates had not lost a battle. Some speculate they had an air of invincibility which may have religious and cultural implications, thus leading them recklessly into peril.
Yes, that is possible. Bear in mind, many of them may have just considered themselves superior in strength, and ability, to the Union troops. They may have held such belief in their own star, that in a way it aided them in combat.
Have you been to Gettysburg? If not and if you ever go, I recommend viewing the diorama of the battlefield located in the town itself before traveling the sites. It really helped me to understand what I would see later on. I also recommend getting the guided tour CD to play at you drive from spot to spot. it's excellent and easy to use.
The Great Debate: Could Lee have taken Washington? The simple answer: No. By 1863 Gettysburg was the most fortified city on EARTH. Had Lee succeeded in splitting the Union Army, the southern half would've immediately headed south along the Baltimore Pike directly to DC. Also Lee's army was practically decimated by then. One more thing: The Vicksburg campaign ended the next day and Rosecran's army wasn't yet committed to the Chattanooga campaign; thousands of western troops could've been moved by rail and ship to DC and arrived within 10 days if DC was seriously threatened. However, the political implications are what might have given the South a strategic victory.
Have been to Gettysburg a number of times, the first being July 1-4, 1993. Sat alone atop Little Round Top, as the sun set to the west. A surreal experience.
One point that seems to be missing is the fact that at one point the Union General in charge of Artillery called to halt firing because both sides were missing, and he didn't want to waste ammunition and this gave the Confederates the idea that their artillery fire had knocked out that of the Union. So when Picket moved forward with his division he was under the assumption that there would be no further artillery fire from the Union side.
The other note about that is Gen. Hunt wanted to stop the cannons like you said and argued with Gen. Hancock who wanted to keep the cannon firing to keep the morale of his men from faltering.. Hunt won.. He had control of the Artillery. Hancock was a junior General at the time. Only taking over the 2nd Corp May 22 1863
Yes, good sense on the part of Hunt exacerbated the situation for Pickett.
But did it matter in the big picture? Longstreet did not have the authority to simply call off the attack. He already voiced strong objections to Lee.
It was much much easier for the AoP to scramble reinforcements into position and bring up more ammunition for their cannon, than the ANV. Any delay favored Meade. Even if Lee had the ammunition to bring forward and continue the barrage, he could not let the clock keep ticking.
Thanks for that great video! I m italian but i love american history: for me this battle was one of most important for the Union's victory. (Sorry for my english! )
It’s okay that English was great, just remember, when you talk about yourself always capitalize the letter i.
Love Italia 💖
If you get a chance you should visit Gettysburg National Military Park. The visitor's center there is amazing and you can walk over the entire battleground. Plus the park rangers who are guides there really know their stuff.
@@leifjohnson617 you're right! plus it's really humbling walking over the same grass that hundreds of thousands of people gave their lives for only ~150 years ago.
Your English is excellent!
I was at Gettysburg last week. This video is amazing.
1039sflem I go to Gettysburg once a month but it feels like I am going every day
I live there. I walk different parts of the battlefield, mostly near Gettysburg College, or over by Culp's Hill. It's an amazing piece of history, and you can feel that history as you walk the fields.
Manuel Parks oh my gosh my ancestors lived in Gettysburg as well the Weikerts and shrivers were my ancestors that live in Gettysburg Pennsylvania
Thank you for your service kind sir
How many did you killed?
Just re-watched the 1993 movie a couple days ago. There's a legitimate reason why that film is such a classic, and why it's almost universally considered one of the greatest, if not THE greatest, American Civil War movies of all time.
Gettysburg is an incredible movie, though I was always a bit taken aback that it didn't include the cavalry actions.
Gettysburg is a great film. Glory is even better. And Gods & Generals is just awful.
@@damonmosier3651 Would you agree that Gods and Generals is actually a good movie but is let down by the fact that the scope is too big?
@@trajan231 I haven't watched it in forever, and only one time, but I'd say... probably not. Whereas any of the Hobbit films could be a decent 90 minute film, but trapped within a 3 hour bloated mess, I felt G&G was just pro-Confederate propaganda trapped in a 3 hour bloated mess.
@@damonmosier3651 It should've followed Gettysburg and focussed on the greatest Confederate victory in the war, the Battle of Chancellorsville. If they had gone with the back story, then they should have focussed on 1st Bull Run. Either way, they were probably trying to build up Confederate momentum going into Gettysburg.
This is astonishing content. Its amazing to me how all this information was gathered and mapped out.i can only imagine how much hard work, time and dedication went into this. Thumbs ALL the way up👍👏
Thanks Xavier. Glad you enjoyed!
What a great documentary! What a historical battle! The courage these men had to advance under enemy fire, seeing you comrades fall and the still keep on going. Picket's charge is my favourite!
A frontal charge in broad daylight over open ground for 1 mile. What could go wrong?
¯\_(ツ)_/¯
"That man had my regiment "
Blame Stuart for taking the cavalry for a joy ride. He had taken the cavalry behind Union lines and was not present to provide reconnaissance that would have probably led Lee to a different tactic.
Lee lacked the information good cavalry would have provided. As such, he fell back on what he knew and what he could see. What he could see was two strong positions connected by what appeared to be a weak line of men. He had no idea of the reinforcements sitting behind them.
Lee went with the standard military training of the day. A maneuver from no less than Napoleon of attacking the weak middle and enveloping/destroying the strong ends in turn. The maneuver was valid and proven, and doomed to failure in the face of the technological advances of firepower since Napoleon first used it.
Lee made the plan, and gave the order, so ultimately the blame is his. But several factors came together to contribute to this Union victory.
The only last chance to win the war for the South. Lee knew it.
Exactly. Did we not learn from Fredericksburg? Lee was correct: it was his disaster.
As a foreigner, may I thank you for this animation. It made my understanding of the scope of the battle. I have copy of the magnificent movie made on that hallowed ground and I shall watch it again and again. All honour to the soldiers of both sides, the dead, the wounded and the survivors.
Seriously, one of the best short documentaries I’ve seen..well done ✅
This is the single best explanation of the battle that I've ever seen. Thanks very much for posting this and your other battle maps.
I had been to Gettysburg few times and I don't know if is just me but I can felt the soldiers spirit around me. So many people died in such horrific way on that place.
truly haunting
One of my favorite channels on RUclips. Thanks for sharing these and trying to give a better understanding of what the country was like and what these brave young men gave their lives so easily for. Keep up all the great videos ☺👍
As a non american, these are EXCELLENT videos from where to learn about america's history
If you're interested in the Civil War you should come to Virginia the whole state of Virginia was a Battlefield why they don't promote history here I have no clue
Absolute best documentary on Gettysburg ever if you want to see the flow of the battle. Well done.
Those animated graphics are very impressive and impactful, providing deeper, strategic insights of how this legendary battle was conducted. And I’ll always be amazed at how close the Rebels came to winning the most pivotal, epic battle of the entire war. What a major struggle for both sides.
I've been to Gettysburg many times. I was born, raised, and still live in central PA.
Gettysburg is a beautiful place with it's scenery, but yet, it's also a somber and solemn place. To see the battlefield can give one chills and tears. I don't agree with the South's stance on slavery, but when you look across the field where Pickett's Charge happened, you need to admire and respect the courage it took to follow those orders. From Cemetery Hill, Seminary Ridge, Big and Little Round Top, Devil's Den, Culp's Hill..etc...you appreciate the Union winning The Battle of Gettysburg and ultimately the Civil War to preserve and reunite The United States of America.
Next year, July 1st, 2nd, and 3rd 2023 will be the 160th Anniversary of The Battle of Gettysburg.
I had at least 9 ancestors fight for The North during The Civil War. May God Bless and Rest Their Souls.
Thanks for your videos, you made and excellent job. I'm italian and I have been studying the american civil war for many years, but I always had problems to understand the course of the battles by reading from the books. Now the stages of the battles are really clearer to me. Sorry for my bad english and greetings from Italy
I just took my family to Antietam and they were amazed. My daughter really enjoyed the video and the park rangers were a pleasure to chat with.
I haven't been back to Gettysburg since I was a boy but plan on going back for a weekend once school starts. I did the audio tour on cassette with my parents and I never forgot it. Truly an otherworldly place.
When you get back to Gettysburg, I hope you get on a tour with Ranger Matt Atkinson. Your whole family will love it!
Attended a re-enactment at Antietam with my brother and we were also amazed. The battlefield smoke was crazy thick and with so much going on we had regiments walking right up on us visitors. We were like dang this was serious!
Visiting Gettysburg, you are overwhelmed by the number of monuments and places to see and it is difficult to grasp how it all came down. This video is SO well done; you actually can see WHERE the battle took place in the areas of this town. Thank you for producing it!
I’ve been to Gettysburg a couple of times and every time that I go there it feels brand new. It is just crazy the amount of soldiers from both sides who perished on that battlefield. There is so much history that just comes from this one single battle in American history that it is insane. American Battlefield Trust, y’all have done so much to help and preserve this battlefield that you are honoring the soldiers who fought and I thank you for that! History now a days(especially Civil War) is starting to slowly be forgotten that it is just heartbreaking. It is nice to see that organizations such as y’all are doing this to help teach and preserve the history of the war and the battle.
There were no soldiers from TWO sides. Only ONE side. They were AMERICAN soldiers,all of them.
these animations help clear up my appreciation of this battle. After reading "Killer Angels", and watching this video i feel better informed . thank you
I read the 3 books and quite agree. The video gave me a better comprehension of what I had read.
I just visited Gettysburg with my family a couple weeks ago and found it fascinating, although I had a bit of a hard time imagining how the battle had played out. This video helps immensely, thanks for making it
I was stationed in APG, Maryland. During my last 2 wks in service, I took 3 days leave to Spend at Gettysburg. On the last morning, I went to Little Round Top at sunrise. I could feel an oppressiveness, as I viewed the area between LRT and Devil's Den. You know that the fighting was savage there.
as a member and a reenactor i finds these videos a great teaching tool when i am talk to school age children gettysburg was and is the most important battle in the civil war .
Thanks to all involved in the production of this historical video.
I just visited Gettysburg last weekend, it’s an amazing feeling being there. Knowing what history took place, def a must visit for history buffs.
I always thought Gettysburg was haunted
Hard to believe my great great grandfather Joshua Jackson fought at Gettysburg and a few other major battles and survived. His grandfather which is mine removed 4 times fought the english in the revolutionary war too.
My 3x great grandfather survived Andersonville
was he union or confederate
@@c.r.s.6008 union
A lot of people's ancestors fought at Gettysburg.
I think of my Grandfather, who fought in WW1, lived in a time to hear Civil War stories direct from it's veterans. Wish I would have asked him so many questions. I do remember him saying that men who fought in these two wars wished no man to have to fight a war again.
Thank you for showing this.
It gives me thankfulness and appreciation for the men and women who fought to keep this country together.
May the Southern soldiers rest in peace too.
They too fought for a cause.
We are in a Civil War now.
Civil War 2.0 Information War and rewriting history.
I will fight for my country.
All their videos are excellent. I wish people appreciated how unique our civil war was. Thanks for the great history.
This is by far one of the most extensive and interesting battle recreations I have ever seen. I am not one to fact check, but it seems like a great deal of research went into this and I appreciate that. The representation was objective, and did not over sensationalize the horrors of that battle. That said, it was still a very "real" depiction of war and it is difficult to see Americans killing one another. That is not something I want to see happen now or in the past. Either way, thank you for making such a concise and...I hate to say the word "entertaining," but that is how I would describe this video. Let's just hope we don't revert to the past or repeat any part of the civil war...at the same time, we can't move forward without knowing where we came from.
Your balance of showing "who" actually fought there without comment is so refreshing in a time of polarised representations. Thank you!
Another stupid: did you not understand the malicious branding of the great Southerners defending their nation as "rebels."
@@TomCook-jw6ur I mean they were. They are the enemy of the United States.
@@TomCook-jw6ur They rebelled against the President of the United States lmao. What else would we call them? By definition they're rebels...
@@TomCook-jw6ur "Rebel" is a kind word for them. They weren't "defending their nation." Their nation was the United States of America, and they turned their allegiance and their guns against it. The correct word for them is "traitors."
Well what good is an election if entire states decide to up and leave because they lost, even though they lost fair and square? They weren't being oppressed in any way shape or form. The very idea of the Constitution becomes meaningless at that point.
Thank you. You're videos are done really well and I enjoy watching them very much.
I've had two incredibly humbling experiences in my life ( I'm 64 ) . One was visiting the Gettysburg battlefield . The other was the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor . I cherish those memories despite the tears they bring !
I'd recommend the American cemetery in Normandy it's incredibly humbling as well.
I was very humbled visiting the USS Arizona and showing the name of a family member on the memorial to my son and daughter and showing them hes entombed below us. My daugher wept as did I..
Yes , excellent choice ! Thank you !
Two of my great great grandfathers served in AP Hill's 3rd Corps with the Georgia 35th. They joined the Army of Northern Virginia in 1861 and were both present at Appomattox in April 1865. Had either not made it home, much of my family would not exist.
Sometimes it's sad when people DON'T die.
It's a joke btw. :P
I’m a huge fan of history and love to travel. I’ve been to Gettysburg twice, and both times it’s like visiting a focal point where time stopped. It’s as if the town is still in 1863. The battlefield is so well preserved while still bearing battle scars on the landscape and surrounding buildings. You’re not visiting a town, you are in a living breathing museum. And if the history isn’t your fancy. The 360 degree views of the landscape, local breweries, Mom ‘n’ Pop shops, and restaurant taverns aught to be. One fact I always find interesting is that they have recovered several musket balls that have been fused together mid flight. Meaning they were fired directly at each other at the same time. When you see the shear size of the battle and take that into account. Only then can you understand just how massive and dangerous it would’ve been to stand in that exact viewing spot on July 1-3, 1863.
Stories of corn being chopped down.
@ basically at times you had massive lead walls on both sides moving across the fields towards the opposition.
This is one of the best channels on RUclips. Thanks for the amazing videos.
Just came across this and watched it. This is So very well done. I can't wait to watch the other videos. Wow again, great job
As a member/supporter I very much appreciate these battle presentation videos!! a good job, Jim, keep up the good work!
Thanks!
Go to Gettysburg and you can walk out part of the way from the tree line where pickets men formed and waited then moved out into their lines, with glasses you can see the where the union lines are including the corner.. the perspective is amazing , i cannot see how anyone could move that far under cannon fire then shot and expect to survive.. that feeling stayed with me for some time.. my heart goes out to those men, on both sides.
I have never been to Gettysburg but it always wanted to go. I have studied the battles greatly though. When I think about the quality of a man that it took to fight that battle, on both sides, I am amazed that the American Spirit. We can't lift this Union Fall Again under the attack cuz it's going to through now. We the citizens have nothing to do with the political war being raged but we will suffer because of it. We cannot let this happen. The battle needs to be waged at The Ballot Box.
@@donaldcutler721 Amen to that Brother.
@@donaldcutler721 come to Gettysburg, walk the fields and drink in the history.
Bob Griffith I was told by a guide in 1983 that pickets charge was 2hrs late. The plan was to move the troops under the cover of the cannon fire by the time they did it they were in full view in an open field. They were just open targets I forget how many yards. Has anyone heard of this? He was an old guide at the time and forget his name. You could hire him and he would ride around in your car and tell you show and tell you things about the battle.
That’s why Longstreet was sad he knew most of them would die
I'll be going to Gettysburg for the 1st time in Sept. and my wife is going to watch this video to have an idea of what happened there so long ago. Very nicely done and easy for a non-history person to understand.
Thanks for posting.
JN
Make sure you watch the National Park Rangers interpretations of this battle before you go. They are here on RUclips. Little Round Top and Devils Den as well as others. Very informative. We have been to Gettysburg several times. Plan at least two days to travel around the entire battlefield to see everything. It's easier to do it on your own rather than taking a bus. You see a lot more. :). Enjoy! It's a great place. Antietam Battlefield isn't far away. I suggest a visit there also.
@@patriotmama I have watch many of them and they are all great. Can't wait to get there to view this historical battle field were so many died on both sides. It's been a life long dream to go there but never could find the time. Now I am. Thanks.
It's quite an experience, walking along the landscape there. You will have a great visit.
Don't forget to visit the towns around Gettysburg too, Hanover and Lancaster, mcsherrystown and New Oxford. The battle took place in those areas as well. You can see the bullet holes in many of the buildings.
@@kennylandreth585 And besides, it is a quaint area of beautiful Pennsylvania countryside.
This video and everything you do it's so wonderful thank you for everything. The music for this one is a little out of Step with the period
A very good job of this battle. I had a relative who fought there and watching this helps me understand how his unit was involved. He was George Washington Courtney, private, 14 Alabama Infantry Regiment, Wilcox Brigade, Anderson Division, A.P. Hill Corp. He was wounded in the foot on July 2 and was captured on July 3rd.
Amazing. So easy to follow and well presented. Images, map graphics, narration music. 11 out of 10!
This was extremely helpful for my history project. I was able to find so much information on this battle that I'm doing my report on.
To think, the last survivor of the Civil War passed away in Texas in 1959. Brings it closer to home. Fantastic History video,
That’s a long time
@@DacStudiosEntertainment Not really if you think about it. A good friend from Egypt once told me , that you can see 1000 or 1500 year old furniture being thrown away in outside trash piles in front of homes. ha ha that is older than our country, I guess time is relevant.
The National Museum they have in Gettysburg is absolutely amazing for any history buffs. They have hundreds of guns, you can tour the rock wall line that the Union took cover behind. They have a monument that shows the names of every combatant on both sides, quite humbling to stand on that kind of hallowed ground
Best documentary I've ever seen. Thank you for posting. GOD BLESS ALL.
great videos! using these videos on the civil war for homeschooling my 9th grade son. much thanks! my great great grandfather fought near wheatfield/devils den for the 14th US Infantry in the 5th Corps.
These videos are absolutely fantastic. Great job!
Just recently decided to start learning about the American Civil War, and this is exactly the kind of channel I’ve been looking for. I’m also currently reading Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era by James McPherson. Which is a fantastic read.
Also read All The Gallant men about Pearl Harbor being bombed dragging America into WWII
if it interests you, check out the Ken Burns produced 9 part series called simply "The civil war" It contains numerous first hand accounts from all manner of people; soldiers from both sides, politicians, newspapers, letters and diary entries from civillians. It is a goldmine. If you know less than nothing beforehand it breaks down almost everything in a clear manner, but gets you right in the feels for both sides.
What did you think about that book, Battle Cry of Freedom? I found it the best single volume history of the US Civil War. I especially appreciated the setup of many factors leading to the crisis: 250 of 1,000 pages devoted to this setup.
@@warnerchandler9826 I found it an extraordinary book on the topic and I was surprised by how much it managed to cover. I would definitely recommend it to anybody interested in the period.
I personally believe anyone with an interest in military history should learn about the American Civil War, because it gives us a clear view of the development of warfare from the napoleonic era to trench warfare and what we would ultimately ended up seeing in WW1. Again, the book was great. The use of the Gatling Gun was a game changer in the world of warfare and the use of even better artillery, and better weapons changed the landscape of the battlefield forever.
I still find it hard to believe that more Americans died in the Civil War than in WW1, WW2, Korea and Vietnam combined. Which is staggering.
I have been to the Gettysburg battlefields twice years back, now I feel I have to go back again. Great watch. Thanks...…..
This is an excellent video that really helps you understand the movement of troops on a large scale, something that is critical for understanding the battle on a smaller scale.
This is SO well done. Thank you very much for putting this together. Subscribed!
Great video. American history is really interesting. Greetings from Bogota-Colombia. ^^
Thanks! Greetings from Green Bay, WI, USA!
Amazing video of the great battle of Gettysburg, Congratulations from the South Italy (Reggio Calabria)
My 2nd great grandfather was in the VA 8th infantry (Army of the Potomac) and wounded but survived Pickett’s charge. He had the year before been in the battle of Antietam. I cannot imagine the horror these people endured.
2 tough battles
This is so sad to watch. All these brave men. I don't want anyone to lose. Congratulations on a brilliant presentation. I have never seen anything to rival it.
That’s kinda racist actually.
You , sir, are an idiot. the men who fought the battles didn't fight for or against slavery; they fought for their comrades and they fought to return to their loved ones.
This is so incredibly well done. I've managed to stop at Gettysburg a couple of times but never for long enough. I plan to go back when I can make time for two full days on the battlefield and surroundings.
I've read a few accounts of the Battle of Gettysburg. I've never been able to clearly picture all the movements of the troops. This video gives me a much better idea, albeit horrific, of what happened and when. It makes me feel sicker and much more compassionate for all the Americans in the battle be they North or South. Our country lost too many fine men in the Civil War.
What's completely missing on these maps is topography. That's a fatal flaw in the explanation of why they went where they did.
Yes also lines of communication... and enemy contact The map is still done well . Also the historical narrative.
its easy to find flaws when you have hindsight and a perfect 2d top view of the battlefield
It is hard to move a land force, cannons and supplies up steep hills which is why having the high ground is advantageous
@@willb8684 I'm not trying find flaw. I'm saying you can't really understand these events if you don't consider the landscape. Everything from where the armies went and why, where Lee went through the mountains, and why the Union Army cavalry moving onto and holding the hilltops around Gettysburg proved decisive.
@@StereoSpace I know what you mean. Watching this, we are trying to follow the decisions that were made but we don''t have much of a picture of what the terrain was and why decisions were made the way they were.
This is my most favorite RUclips channel because I love history especially civil war revolutionary war and the war of 1812
@ 68, this is my first viewing of the animated American Civil War. What a fine production, thank you ABT and to all those involved making this video.
Everything explained by the narrator very clearly, I am now looking forward to viewing many more productions.
Gnr Magrath Carl John
11 Btty
2/3 Fld Regt.
Royal Australian Artillery
Thank you so much for the work you do. This is the best video I have seen to date on the subject. It gives a very good feel for the conditions and flow of the battle.
I was at Gettysburg on the 123rd anniversary of the battle, which presented an interesting coincidence of the numbers (July 1/2/3, 1986). I was also graced with the same birthday as President Lincoln.
I am a retired US Army officer. I felt the overwhelming loss standing in that hallowed cemetery, and my tears flowed to the point of sobbing. I believe there is an eternal spiritual presence there.
Maybe just your imagination?
It's a shame that channels like this one don't have more viewers.
"general lee i must tell u straight, that i believe this attack will fail. no 15,000 men ever made, will overtake that ridge today."
Who said that?
@@couldbeanybody2508 Longstreet
Could Be Anybody General Longstreet, just before Pickett's charge.
Ghandi
@@couldbeanybody2508 Tom Berenger
A visually clear summary of the movements of the two armies. An excellent video on this battle's importance.
This is top notch content. 100k will come soon.
These videos are brilliant. I'm sharing them with all my friends.
Thanks for that great video! I m brazilian but i love american history:
for me this battle was one of most important for the Union's victory.
(Sorry for my english! )
Great video. The animation was prefect. I understand the lay of the land better now. Great job! Keep up the great work!
Visited Gettysburg almost every summer as a kid/teen as my pops is very into the history of these 3 days... well done video!
What an amazing video. Love to catch up on American History. Horrible time for our country but it does make me proud to be an American
I had two Great Great Grand Fathers and Great great great Uncle in the Union Army At Gettysburg. I am grateful to them for saving my Nation and country.
Only to be giving it away now. What a waste of human life. Those lost souls have to be turning over in their graves when they see what is happening now to their country.
My great great grandfather also served for the Union (artillery, many major battles, captured, exchanged, reenlisted).