9. The Decision at the Battle of Gettysburg: Pickett’s Charge
On July 3, 1863, during the Battle of Gettysburg, General Robert E. Lee faced a pivotal crossroads. He made the fateful decision to order Pickett’s Charge—a direct assault on the center of Union lines. Despite his officers’ reservations, Lee pressed forward, resulting in devastating Confederate losses and a failed breakthrough. The aftermath marked a decisive turning point in the American Civil War, as Confederate momentum was shattered and the Union gained the upper hand.
