Elennsar
Colonel
- Joined
- May 14, 2008
- Location
- California
Hill didn't behave inappropriately at Gettysburg. On the first day, he was the one who contributed most to the Confederate victory of the day and on day two, his spent troopers were engaged spectacularly, earning the admiration of friend and foe alike. Little Powell was a gifted corps commander, as well as an excellent division commander. With apologies to Cleburne, Hill was the best division commander for the CSA and perhaps for both sides.
Civil War Scholar.
On the first day, Hill sent in Heth's division without any regard for what was in its front, where it got chewed up by 1st Corps (Archer's and Davis's brigades especially). His use of Pender's division was not much better when it went in - yes it ultimately took Seminary Ridge, but at a higher than necessary cost in casualties.
And characterizing that as contributing more than Ewell rolling up 11th Corps is an uncertain assertion at best.
On day 2, his men were anything but engaged spectacularly. Heth's division wasn't in the fight, nor was Pender's division, leaving only three of Anderson's brigades - Posey being bogged down skirmishing and Mahone refusing to advance.
Yes, those who were involved fought well, but there was no manner of skillful deployment or even utilization of all 3rd corps (even considering the shape of Heth's command, Thomas and Lane from Pender and Mahone and Posey from Anderson could have and should have taken part in the fighting.).
And on day 3, Hill essentially did nothing to contribute even in regards to making sure Lee knew the condition of Heth's division.
This is not a successful depute. If your idea of "appropriately" is getting six of thirteen brigades cut up on day 1 and only having 3 brigades play a significant part in the fighting on day 2, then I can only say that such decisions as Hill made do not win battles.