Pickett's Charge

Gettysburg, July 3, 1863     As one of the most decisive engagements in one of the most renowned battles, the tragic assault known as Pickett’s Charge, still resonates 150 years later. After several unsuccessful attempts to envelop Federal forces by striking the Union left flank at the Peach Orchard, Wheatfield, Devil’s Den and the Round Tops and then attacking the Union right flank at Culp’s and East Cemetery Hill, General Robert E. Lee concentrated his remaining strength of artillery and infantry at the center of the Union lines. Despite the initial hesitation from his senior commander, Lt. General James Longstreet, Lee remained steadfast in his tactical plan, which called for nearly 12,000 men (nine brigades) to march over 1,000 yards across open ground. His confidence in the infantry’s ability to reach the enemy was bolstered by the plan to precede the initial charge with a concentrated cannonade focused at the Union center. Although Longstreet’s corps artillery chief, Colonel Edwa