An authoritative and superbly illustrated exploration of the events of July 3, 1863, incorporating new interpretations that have arisen in the past two decades.

The third day of the Battle of Gettysburg was the most dramatic of the three. Among the iconic clashes that took place was the 12,500-man attack known as Pickett’s Charge, General Lee’s last assault at Gettysburg in which his soldiers suffered over 60 percent losses. Other key moments of the day were the action at Culp’s Hill—arguably where the outcome of the battle was decided—the engagement at East Cavalry Field, the two-hour artillery duel, and the Union counterattack at the south end of the battlefield.

This final volume in Timothy J. Orr’s trilogy emphasizes the tactical decisions of Day Three and documents the ensuing combat in detailed 2D maps, 3D diagrams, and historic photographs. It also includes a brief summary of the strategic and human consequences of the campaign, carrying the story to November 19, 1863, the day of Lincoln’s famed Gettysburg Address. Primary accounts from common soldiers infuse this study, reminding readers that Gettysburg was—among other things—a tale of suffering and endurance. The experiences and equipment of these men are brought to life in stunning detail in Steve Noon’s dramatic battlescenes.