The largest and certainly the most famous battle fought on American soil. General Lee's Confederate army, raiding through Pennsylvania, was drawn into a decisive battle when it almost bumped into a pursuing Union army under Meade. Lee's cavalry was off on a raid of its own leaving him 'blind'.

On the 1st, Confederate troops looking for shoes in the town encountered Buford's mounted infantry just west of the town on McPherson's Ridge. Soon reinforcements were rushed to both sides and the Union troops were pushed south of the town, taking up position on Cemetery Hill and Culps Hill. During the night further reinforcements arrived extending the line to Cemetery Ridge.

On the second day, Lee sent Ewell against the Union right, and Longstreet to envelop their left. Fierce and bloody fighting throughout the afternoon failed to turn the Union position however despite leaving two hills, Little & Big Round Top, on the extreme left of the Union line unoccupied until late in the day. Only a bayonet charge by the 20th Maine saved the position.

Day 3 was characterised by 'Pickets Charge'. 10 rebel brigades were sent against the Union centre on Cemetery Ridge after a largely ineffective barrage. 15,000 men crossed half a mile of open ground bombarded by artillery but did reach and briefly break the Yankee line before the remainder was thrown back by Meade's reserves. The attack was done, and Lee prepared for the inevitable counter-attack which, in the end, never came. Lee withdrew and retreated south, but Meade never attempted to finish off the Army of Northern Virginia.

Around the town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, USA (USA)

American Union Forces

Number engaged :

88,289

Casualties :

23,049 (26.11%)

American Confederate Forces

Number engaged :

75,000

Casualties :

28,063 (37.42%)