What was the significance of the Battle of Gettysburg?

The significance of the Battle of Gettysburg lies primarily in its status as a turning point in the Civil War. Fought from July 1 to July 3, 1863, it was one of the deadliest battles in American history and the largest fought during the war. The Union victory ended General Robert E. Lee's invasion of the North and marked a crucial moment for the Union Army, boosting morale and support for the war effort in the North. After Gettysburg, the Confederate Army struggled to regain its offensive capability, and this defeat significantly weakened their position in the war.

The battle also paved the way for President Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, which redefined the purpose of the war and emphasized themes of liberty and equality. Its outcome helped shift public opinion, solidifying the Northern resolve to continue fighting until the Confederacy was defeated, ultimately leading to the preservation of the Union.