Day 2 Topography (Killer Angels)

There can be little doubt that the site of Gettysburg itself is necessary to understanding the story of what took place there back in 1863. In rereading Killer Angels and having visited Gettysburg (9 summers ago) I am again struck with the key role that the actual land itself plays as a vital part of the story in this epic battle. I completely understand General Hood's reluctance in attacking toward Devil's Den across the Valley of Death and up Little Round Top. When I had read about these areas earlier in my life in was hard to conceptualize exactly what made it so difficult an area. Having seen what is accurately described (page 213) as "great boulders tall as houses, piled one upon another like wreckage of a vast explosion," it fascinates me that this ground is indeed uniquely shaped for what occurred here 147 years ago this summer. I think that in teaching about Gettysburg it is crucial for students to understand the role topography plays in this battle and many other historic events.