Select two of the following:
Battles of Antietam, Gettysburg, Vicksburg, or Lee's surrender at Appomattox Court House
1. Explain the significant of the event (2pts)
2. Provide details examples (2pts)
You must explain with details for both events you select.
1. The Battle of Gettysburg was a significant event in the American Civil War as it marked a turning point in the conflict. The Union victory at Gettysburg is often considered the high water mark of the Confederacy, and it also led to General Robert E. Lee's decision to retreat back to Virginia. This battle shifted the momentum of the war in favor of the Union and gave them a much-needed morale boost.
2. The Battle of Gettysburg took place from July 1-3, 1863 in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. It was the bloodiest battle of the Civil War with over 50,000 casualties. The battle is often remembered for Pickett's Charge, a failed Confederate assault on the Union lines on July 3rd. The Union army, under the command of General George Meade, was able to successfully defend their position on Cemetery Ridge and secure a crucial victory.
3. Lee's surrender at Appomattox Court House was the event that effectively ended the American Civil War. On April 9, 1865, General Robert E. Lee surrendered his Confederate army to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia. This marked the end of the Confederacy's ability to continue fighting, and ultimately led to the reunification of the United States.
4. The surrender at Appomattox Court House came after a series of battles and skirmishes in the spring of 1865 that weakened the Confederate army and depleted their supplies. Lee realized that further resistance was futile, and he sought honorable terms of surrender from Grant. The terms of surrender were generous, allowing Confederate soldiers to return home with their horses and possessions, and helping to facilitate the healing of the nation after such a devastating conflict.