Here goes..now I'm really upset with all this....New question..I need something to guide me...How did the changing command situation of the Army of the Potomac influence Gettysburg ? Also, did the elevation
of George Gordon Meade make the Union victory more or less likely ? I don't think this is any better than the other?
Changing the command to General Meade, instead of Gen. Hooker, put a responsive and drill instructor commander of the Army of the Potomac. Basically changing command put a better general in Meade leading the union army. Meade's force controlled the high ground which made the victory more likely
Thanks Lance, for the guidance to complete my work on this.
No problem that's why I'm here to help
I'm sorry to hear that you're feeling upset. I'll do my best to help you with your questions.
To answer your first question, understanding how the changing command situation of the Army of the Potomac influenced Gettysburg requires some historical context. The Army of the Potomac was the principal Union army in the Eastern Theater of the American Civil War. Several different commanders led the army during various stages of the war, and these changes in leadership had significant effects on the army's performance at the Battle of Gettysburg.
Here's how you can delve into this topic to get a better understanding:
1. Start by researching the different commanders of the Army of the Potomac during the Civil War. Some notable commanders include George B. McClellan, Ambrose Burnside, Joseph Hooker, and George G. Meade.
2. Look into the command styles, strategies, and decision-making of each commander. Consider their strengths and weaknesses, leadership abilities, and relationships with their subordinates.
3. Explore how the changing command affected the morale, cohesion, and overall effectiveness of the Army of the Potomac leading up to the Battle of Gettysburg. Did the transitions disrupt and demoralize the troops, or did new commanders bring fresh perspectives and organizational improvements?
4. Analyze the specific actions and decisions made by each commander during the Battle of Gettysburg. Evaluate how their leadership, tactical choices, and communication with their subordinates influenced the outcome of the battle.
Moving on to your second question, George Gordon Meade's elevation to command the Army of the Potomac did play a role in the Union victory at Gettysburg, but it is important to note that Gettysburg was a collective effort and involved numerous factors.
To explore the influence of Meade's elevation, consider the following steps:
1. Research George Gordon Meade's background, military experience, and previous command assignments. Understand his reputation and standing within the army before being appointed as the commander of the Army of the Potomac.
2. Assess Meade's role in the battle. Study his decision-making, his ability to adapt to changing circumstances, and his interactions with his subordinates during the critical moments of the engagement.
3. Analyze the impact of Meade's leadership style on the morale, cohesion, and overall performance of the Union army during the battle. Consider factors such as his ability to coordinate the actions of different corps and divisions, his communication with subordinate commanders, and his strategic maneuvers.
4. Compare Meade's performance to the performance of his Confederate counterpart, General Robert E. Lee. Evaluate how Meade's actions and decisions contributed to the Union victory over Lee's army.
I hope these steps help guide you in researching and understanding how the changing command situation of the Army of the Potomac influenced Gettysburg, as well as the impact of George Gordon Meade's elevation on the Union victory. Remember that historical analysis often involves considering multiple factors, perspectives, and sources to form a balanced and comprehensive understanding of events.