Topography

[mike1w]

Please move this thread if needed. Can anyone give me some resources investigating how natural topography, i.e. land types, bodies of water, etc..., affected tactics and strategy during the ACW. From what I've seen and heard, technology and military knowledge of manpower usage seem to be the main focus in analysis.

 

[Robin Lesjovitch]

Please move this thread if needed. Can anyone give me some resources investigating how natural topography, i.e. land types, bodies of water, etc..., affected tactics and strategy during the ACW. From what I've seen and heard, technology and military knowledge of manpower usage seem to be the main focus in analysis.

As Gettysburg has had so much written about it, I would start there. Lee understood he did not know the ground, but after july 1 and the Federal withdrawal to the ridges south of town, Lee ignored some basic instincts and gave battle.
Stones River was another battle to study along with Bragg's defeat at Chattanooga by Grant. Bragg seemed to have difficulty with high ground.
I would say that knowing the ground intended for operations would be a sine qua non for any field commander.

 

[Lubliner]

Maybe I misunderstand the question, but Topography was of priority importance in setting up lines of defense from Bull Run at First Manassas to the very end, where artificial obstructions were everywhere. Resources such as Jedidiah Hotchkiss and 'Draw me a Map of the Valley' to any of the Records regarding infrastructure to be used advantageously. Crossing streams, bridging rivers, access to islands with their difficulty in reinforcement were key to success, and scouting reports relating hardship besides weather, also prevalent. If you desire a Military Study for Topographical features, being a part of the Engineering Department, I know of nothing like Hardee did in his own manual. Thanks,
Lubliner.