Panorama West: Frame 2 by weesel
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No AI - This artwork was created entirely by hand or with traditional digital tools.
Description
A lot easier to see the line of monuments along the rail fence which defines the Union lines.
There is a clump of trees to the left of the roadway as it climbs out of view. I believe this is the "aiming point" for Pickett's Charge. Everything to the left is no man's land which Pickett's Brigade crossed. About 1 mile of open terrain under fire pretty much all the way. 14,000 set out, about half made it back. Why would General Lee do something like this? IMO his plans were too ambitious for the technology he had available. It was supposed to be a three prong blow: the charge across the field (more like a walk really), the taking of Culp's Hill to threaten the Union right flank (the hill was not taken), and a major cavalry charge from behind the Union lines from the right of this image (The charge did not take place. Some lunatic Union general named Custer intercepted the strike force.) When I learned those little facts all fell into place: Lee really was a gambler.
Details seem to vary depending upon source, but here's some links to view if you are interested:
http://www.historynet.com/picketts-charge-gettysburg
https://www.encyclopediavirginia.org/Pickett_s_Charge
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pickett%27s_Charge
I've also read that the Confederate artillery had faulty fuses which burned longer than expected. Thus instead of showering shrapnel on the front lines the shot did its job to the rear of the front line.
Enjoy; thanks for viewing.

Comments (3)
fascinating information - great picture
This must be an amazing place to visit.
Fantastic Work,