Observing Hancock at Gettysburg: The General's Leadership through Eyewitness Accounts

by Paul E. Bretzger

Overview

General Winfield Scott Hancock was perhaps the most influential officer in the federal lines, though he commanded only one of seven Union corps at Gettysburg.

On day one, he rallied fleeing troops and placed them in the formidable position the Union army occupied for the remainder of the battle.

In a frantic few minutes on day two, he masterfully conducted reinforcements into a yawning gap in his defensive line, securing the position just moments before the Confederates advanced to try to take it.

On the third day, he led the successful defense against the massive frontal assault known as Pickett's Charge.

Understanding Hancock's pivotal actions at Gettysburg is essential to understanding the battle itself. This book covers his entire life and military career.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780786499786
Publisher:	McFarland & Company, Incorporated Publishers
Publication date:	02/08/2016
Pages:	246
Product dimensions:	5.90(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.60(d)
Age Range:	18 Years

About the Author

Paul E. Bretzger received the 1987 History Award at Stockton University for outstanding senior thesis and is an architect living and working in New York City.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments ix

Introduction: Who Was Winfield Scott Hancock? 1

1 Prologue 7

2 Harmonious Systems 19

3 Arrival 33

4 Hancock Sets the Table 49

5 The Battle of Bliss Farm 70

6 Sickles Advances 78

7 The Third Corps Collapses 91

8 Hancock Prepares 100

9 Hancock Reacts 109

10 A Night Fight 130

11 Council of War 140

12 Morning of Uncertainty 146

13 Cannonade 154

14 "Longstreet's Assault" 164

15 Aftermath 178

16 Lost Opportunity? 185

17 The Hancock Factor 191

18 After Gettysburg 193

19 Letters and Addresses 214

Chapter Notes 219

Bibliography 235

Index 239

Editorial Reviews

This is a good book. The author weaves the many quotes together into a solid narrative”—Civil War Monitor; “Paul Bretzger’s book on Winfield Scott Hancock is an excellent addition to the literature on Gettysburg in general and on Hancock in particular.... The author captures the essence of Hancock by focusing on the general’s leadership qualities and performance...recommended”—Civil War News; “anyone seriously interested in Gettysburg will find this work an invaluable one”—The NYMAS Review; “this will prove invaluable reading for anyone seriously interested in Gettysburg”—Strategy Page.

From the Publisher