Killer Angels 2

As I read the account of Chamberlain dealing with the soldiers from Maine who were rebellious, I was impressed that he was willing to listen to their grievances. This willingness to listen, coupled with his lack of desire to punish any of the soldiers in questions, opened the door for pride to dissipate among the rebellious. Chamberlain understood that they were tired, discouraged - and even more important - filled with dispair and apathy. Rather than focusing on threats of punishment as a method for motivating them, Chamberlain offered instead an appeal (pages 31-33) to their character and integrity. This approach was far more effective in reaching the hearts and minds of these men than any other would have been. The proof was in the response of these men. They had found a commander that they could trust to treat them with dignity and respect. Chamberlain was someone they could - and would - fight with and for. Two days later, Chamberlain's style of commanding would pay eternal dividends: his men fought in overwhelming conditions but remained undaunted, even when ordered to charge the enemy with bayonets. I believe they were willing to do this because of the manner in which Chamberlain treated his men. I personally have reflected upon the difference a similar approach would have today if used with recalcitrant or sullen, or apathetical, or angry students. Food for thought!