90 Miles From Tyranny : July 1, 1863: The Battle Of Gettysburg Begins

Wednesday, July 1, 2026

July 1, 1863: The Battle Of Gettysburg Begins

Union soldiers lie dead after the Battle of Gettysburg. Circa July 4 – July 7, 1863.

The Battle of Gettysburg begins in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The battle, which endured until July 3, resulted in approximately 23,000 Union and 28,000 Confederate casualties. It was a resounding victory for the Union and a turning point in the American Civil War, which ended in April 1865.

Overview of the Battle of Gettysburg

The Battle of Gettysburg was a pivotal engagement in the American Civil War, fought from July 1 to July 3, 1863. It is widely regarded as a turning point in the conflict, marking a significant victory for the Union forces.

Key Facts

Attribute	Details
Location	Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
Dates	July 1–3, 1863
Union Commander	Major General George G. Meade
Confederate Commander	General Robert E. Lee
Union Strength	Approximately 93,500 to 104,256 soldiers
Confederate Strength	Approximately 65,000 to 75,000 soldiers
Casualties	Over 50,000 combined (23,000 Union, 28,000 Confederate)

Significance of the Battle

Turning Point: The Union victory at Gettysburg halted Lee's invasion of the North, preventing further Confederate advances into Union territory.
Impact on Morale: The battle boosted Northern morale and diminished the hopes of the Confederacy for recognition from European powers.
Military Consequences: The defeat forced Lee to fight defensively for the remainder of the war, significantly altering the course of the conflict.

Aftermath

The Battle of Gettysburg resulted in staggering casualties, making it the bloodiest battle of the Civil War. The Union's success here set the stage for future victories and ultimately contributed to the preservation of the United States.