They Met at Gettysburg

Edward J. Stackpole's *They Met at Gettysburg* presents a comprehensive and meticulously detailed account of the pivotal battle at Gettysburg. The book vividly chronicles the three tumultuous days of fighting in July 1863, from the initial clashes on McPherson's Ridge to the desperate struggle on Little Round Top and the climactic, devastating Pickett's Charge. Stackpole meticulously analyzes the strategic decisions and tactical maneuvers of both Union and Confederate commanders, offering readers a clear understanding of the ebb and flow of this crucial engagement and the immense human cost involved. This work stands as an indispensable inclusion on any list of Edward J. Stackpole's best books due to his unique and invaluable perspective. As a distinguished Major General in the Pennsylvania National Guard, Stackpole brought a profound professional understanding of military strategy, logistics, and terrain to his historical narratives. *They Met at Gettysburg* perfectly exemplifies this, providing not just a recounting of events but a deep, insightful analysis from a soldier's viewpoint, which offers unparalleled clarity on the military rationale and challenges faced by the armies. It remains a foundational text for anyone seeking a detailed and authoritative account of the turning point of the American Civil War by a true military historian.