What Did George Pickett Do in the Civil War?
George Pickett was a renowned American Civil War general who played a crucial role in the conflict between the Union and the Confederacy. He is perhaps most famous for leading the ill-fated Pickett’s Charge, a disastrous attack on the Union forces on the third day of the Battle of Gettysburg in July 1863. But what else did George Pickett do during the Civil War?
Early Career and Promotions
Pickett was born in 1825 in Richmond, Virginia, and graduated from West Point in 1846. He served in the Mexican-American War and later became a prominent figure in the Confederate Army. In 1861, he was appointed brigadier general of the Confederate States Army and went on to lead a brigade at the First Battle of Bull Run.
Pickett’s leadership skills and bravery earned him promotions, and by 1862, he was a major general. He led his division at the Seven Days Battles, the Second Battle of Manassas, and the Battle of Fredericksburg.
Pickett’s Charge
Pickett’s Charge is perhaps the most infamous event in Pickett’s career. On July 3, 1863, Confederate General Robert E. Lee ordered Pickett’s division to launch a frontal assault against the Union forces on Cemetery Ridge, known as Cemetery Ridge. The charge was intended to break the Union line and capture the crucial high ground.
Pickett’s division, which consisted of over 12,000 men, advanced across open fields under heavy fire from Union artillery and rifle fire. Despite being significantly outnumbered, Pickett’s men managed to reach the Union lines, but they were unable to break through.
The charge was a catastrophic failure, with over 6,000 Confederate casualties, including many of Pickett’s most experienced officers. The charge was also heavily criticized, with many accusing Pickett of ordering the attack without proper reconnaissance or support.
Post-Gettysburg
After the failure of Pickett’s Charge, Pickett was relieved of his command and sent to Virginia to lead a division under General Jeb Stuart. He played a key role in the Battle of Five Forks, where his division was defeated by Union forces led by General Philip Sheridan.
Pickett was taken prisoner by Union forces in April 1865, just days before the surrender of Confederate General Robert E. Lee at Appomattox.
Notable Battles and Campaigns
Here are some notable battles and campaigns where Pickett played a significant role:
| Battle/Campaign | Date | Result |
|---|---|---|
| First Battle of Bull Run | July 1861 | Confederate victory |
| Seven Days Battles | June-July 1862 | Confederate victory |
| Second Battle of Manassas | August 1862 | Confederate victory |
| Battle of Fredericksburg | December 1862 | Confederate victory |
| Battle of Chancellorsville | April-May 1863 | Confederate victory |
| Battle of Gettysburg (Pickett’s Charge) | July 1863 | Union victory |
| Battle of Five Forks | April 1865 | Union victory |
Legacy
Despite the failure of Pickett’s Charge, George Pickett is still remembered as a courageous and ambitious general who played a significant role in the Civil War. His legacy is often overshadowed by the infamous charge, but he also led his troops to several important victories, including the First Battle of Bull Run and the Seven Days Battles.
Pickett’s bravery and leadership skills were recognized by his contemporaries, including General Robert E. Lee, who praised him as one of his most trusted and capable generals. Today, Pickett is remembered as an important figure in American military history, and his story continues to fascinate historians and Civil War enthusiasts.
Conclusion
George Pickett’s legacy is complex and multifaceted. While he is most famous for the ill-fated Pickett’s Charge, he also played a significant role in several important battles and campaigns throughout the Civil War. As a general, Pickett was known for his bravery, leadership skills, and ambition, and he remains an important figure in American military history.
