CW3O
Sergeant
- Joined
- Jan 17, 2010
- Location
- Massachusetts
Lee took what information he had and made an educated guess. He had made attacks on both ends of the Union line, and after both were reinforced was repulsed. It was logical and reasonable to assume that the center was weaker. He knew that making an attack based upon that assumption was a risk, but Lee was willing to take it; he believed that if the attack was successful, the entire AotP might be put at risk. It is important to remember that the attack had a real chance of succeeding. The what ifs that might have turned in its favor are numerous and have been remarked on for years. But Longstreet's warnings were all correct also. While Pickett's division was relatively sheltered from artillery fire for most of the advance, the other two divisions were hammered the entire way. The Union position also lent itself to quick reinforcements to any point along the line. Both were right.
Lee ASSUMED!!
Lee had seen the failure of previous attacks. Lee knew he was facing the entire AOP and knew it was reinforcing from the beginning.. Lee knew from the previous two days of the AOP s artillery disposition. Lee knew of the AOPs terrain advantage. Lee knew of his own shortcomings in artillery ammunition and reinforcements. Lee could pick up a telescope and see the strength of the Union position. Lee didn't need Stuart to tell him any of this. What was it that Lee didn't know? A Field General should and must act on what he knows, not what on he assumes.
Lee was a brilliant military leader, but made a mistake on day three at Gettysburg.