Observing Hancock at Gettysburg : the general's leadership through eyewitness accounts / Paul E. Bretzger.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Bretzger, Paul E., 1965- author.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Hancock, Winfield Scott, 1824-1886.

Gettysburg, Battle of, Gettysburg, Pa., 1863.

Hancock, Winfield Scott, 1824-1886--Military leadership.

Hancock, Winfield Scott.

Generals--United States--Biography.

Generals.

Command of troops.

United States.

Pennsylvania--Gettysburg.

Genre:

Biographies.

Physical Description:

ix, 246 pages ; 23 cm

Place of Publication:

Jefferson, North Carolina : McFarland & Company, Inc., Publishers, [2016]

Summary:

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. Book jacket.

Contents:

Introduction: who was Winfield Scott Hancock?

Prologue

Harmonious systems

Arrival

Hancock sets the table

The Battle of Bliss Farm

Sickles advances

The Third Corps collapses

Hancock prepares

Hancock reacts

A night fight

Council of war

Morning of uncertainty

Cannonade

"Longstreet's assault"

Aftermath

Lost opportunity?

The Hancock factor

After Gettysburg

Letters and addresses.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references and index.

ISBN:

9780786499786

0786499788

OCLC:

932116151