Walking Pickett's Charge | History Traveler Episode 144

Episode 18 of the Gettysburg series.
When people think of Gettysburg, they usually think of two things: the defense of Little Round Top and Pickett's Charge. In this episode, we're walking in the footsteps of the Confederate soldiers who assaulted the Union center on July 3rd, 1863.
(Note: All drone flights were performed by a Part 107 licensed drone pilot outside of the boundaries of the national military park.)
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Other episodes that you might enjoy:
- Gettysburg: The First Shot (EP 126): • Gettysburg: The First ...
- Religion & Death at Gettysburg (EP 127): • Religion & Death at Ge...
- Urban Combat in Gettysburg (EP 129): • Urban Combat in Gettys...
- Dan Sickles & The Peach Orchard (EP 130): • Dan Sickles & The Peac...
- Clash on East Cemetery Hill (EP 141): • Clash on East Cemetery...
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Help spread history and share this with a friend. And be sure to SUBSCRIBE to catch all of the latest content when it drops. Thanks!

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

If you've watched a few episodes and feel like I've earned it, be sure to subscribe so that you don't miss any new content when it comes out. Thanks!

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

@illmerica Thanks!!!

[@pierreaucoin2480]

Probably my favorite channel.

[@mrsellenj.a1740]

I'm EllenJ Pickett , Robert E Lee Pickett great great granddaughter Thank you for putting together a awesome documentary he would be proud of your great work. To quote my great great grandfather "Boom here comes the boom ready or not here comes the boys from the south" -Robert E Lee Pickett

[@janicelindsey9557]

@@mrsellenj.a1740 What an honor to have this man in your family tree!!!!

[@MichaelHeal99]

I'm a new fan. Subscribed and ready.

[@thomascampbell4730]

One of the greatest thrills of my life was participating in the movie "Gettysburg" and stepping off with 3,000 other reenactors on the actual battlefield. We advanced from Seminary Ridge as far as the Emmitsburg road. Ted Turner pulled some strings, I'm sure, to get permission but it was the lure that brought thousands of us for this once-in-a-life-time event. When the artillery began to fire the realism was awesome. When we advanced I'm sure I wasn't the only man who wondered how anyone truly expected to survive that long march to the small clump of trees.

[@myroselle6987]

Well done! That portion of the film is so moving. I don’t have words to describe how it makes me feel. I can’t imagine the courage of the men who made the actual charge. It must have been quite something to participate in such an outstanding re-creation.

[@lonnieblackmon1307]

@@myroselle6987 of

[@michaelvaughn8864]

​@@myroselle6987I've walked it, and it creates a very melancholy feeling as you approach The Emmitsburg Road prior to reaching Cemetery Ridge, sir

[@MrBBaron]

I walked that exact same path in 1996 in full Confederate uniform and as a Carolina man took pictures of me at that NC monument. It is unbelievable how any man could even reach that close to the enemy line with the massive lead pouring into them. The carnage was beyond belief. Their bravery was beyond measure.

[@kimoandrews5802]

Just so some rich guys could own slaves. Bravery… yes. Stupid… yes

[@James-mh4wv]

A few Confederates actually made it! But took prisoner!

[@kingjoe3rd]

@@kimoandrews5802 why you so mad?

[@martello44]

@@kingjoe3rdIn the confederacy every man had to serve but if you paid $400 (About $20,000 today) you could get out of the Draft and you didn’t have to fight. Poor people had to fight so that the rich people could keep their plantations and their slaves and become even richer. Poor people gave their lives so that the rich could have a good life that’s an old story

[@auntiear126]

No one can watch these vids and not appreciate the brilliance of storytelling backed up by deep knowledge.

[@ZWalk-Around]

I walked Pickett's Charge (from Seminary Ridge to Cemetary Ridge) with my daughter's 6th grade class about 15 years ago. It was a warm day in May. I can't imagine what it was like on July 3rd with the heat, smoke and a battle raging. Thanks for doing this entire series, JD -- it has been epic.

[@ronbednarczyk2497]

Men died from heat stroke just in the march to Gettysburg because there was no ready water supply. When they did have water, they drew water from steams that had had urine, feces, dead soldiers, and dead animals deposited in it. The deadliest weapon in the life of a Civil War soldier was his canteen.

[@Wilett614]

@@ronbednarczyk2497 Quite True Indeed .... Dysentery was a MAJOR cause of Soldiers Deaths ,along with very UNSANITARY medical procedures and wound treatments .. ANY wound could become Lethal ..

[@ronbednarczyk2497]

@@Wilett614 There's a very good book titled "Learning from the Wounded, The Civil War and the Rise of American Medical Science" by Shauna Devine.

[@Wilett614]

@@ronbednarczyk2497 Awesome ! I will look for that Book And Thank You !

[@ronbednarczyk2497]

@@Wilett614 The author spoke at our local Civil War Round Table. Her talk was very enlightening. She's a Board Member, National Museum of Civil War Medicine, Fredrick Maryland/Washington DC.

[@debramusic8455]

My son and I spent 6 days during the 30 June - 5 July 2006 after he graduated from the Air Force Academy. We went to all the local museums, a ghost tour, drove with a ranger for a guided tour and of course watched the battle with re-enactments. Then walked all over the battlefield. We had ancestors that fought on both sides of the conflict. Mostly cousins against cousins. But one instance of brothers fighting each other. I had been several times but this was Stephen’s first time. We spent 2 weeks visiting 7 different battlefields from Vicksburg, all through Virginia to Gettysburg. It was an amazing experience.

[@michaelvaughn8864]

Congrats 4 your son's commencement, Ms. Music😊👍 Is he still in The Service??

[@incubus1160]

As an Australian, to walk the battlefield's of the civil war has been a dream of mine since i was a young fella.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Hopefully these videos will hold you over for awhile 🙂

[@stone-coldsteveautism6986]

It's pronounced feller. And Yankees still pronounce Gettysburg as "geht-tees-burg". In the the Honorable South, we pronounce it as "get-tis-burg". Small distinction between two nations. ✌🤟🖖...forevermore.

[@incubus1160]

@@stone-coldsteveautism6986 I spelt it how it's pronounced over here, we shorten a lot of words

[@stone-coldsteveautism6986]

@@incubus1160 Oh, I meant no disrespect...just a tutorial. God love ya, Sir.

[@stephenkammerling9479]

@@stone-coldsteveautism6986 I guess you forgot, we're ONE nation now. Though in today's America I like the South a lot more than the north based on current politics. This coming from a lifelong resident of Chicago area, with a few years living in NJ during my childhood.

[@victorianidetch]

"General Lee, I don't think this is a good idea, I don't want to go." I don't think there would have been anyone that brave. I stood at the top of the wall and thought, 'That's just crazy!" Brave, brave men, enormous sacrifice.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Can't even imagine.

[@lf7961]

Never understood why General Lee made that decision. So many were slaughtered.

[@ChineseChicken1]

L F Up until that time the Army of Northern Virginia had never been defeated. Lee had all the confidence in the world in his Men. He thought they were invincible as most of his Army though as well. He was simply overconfident at their constant proven ability to win battle after battle in the face of being outnumbered and under supplied.

[@billd.iniowa2263]

@@lf7961 I think it was because he had the Union Army here, and may never get another chance like this again... to march on Washington. Operational warfare is all about supply. Perhaps he only had the resources for this one thrust up far into the North. Had he won this battle he could have won the war. There was nothing much to stop him from reaching Washington. Whether he was aware of that I dont know.

[@MiJacFan1]

@@ChineseChicken1 sounds to me like he was over confident, probably got cocky.

[@williammahlmeister9792]

I made this walk about 25 years ago by myself. I felt like I could see the battle all around me. The men that made this "walk" must have been unbelievably brave. To be able to make yourself do what these men did is nothing short of superhuman.

[@TheGravitywerks]

A good book written by Dave Grossman (Lt. Col.ret. Army Ranger..teaches psychology at the Army War College (On Killing...is the name of the book.) points out that over 20,000 muskets were picked up after the Battle of Gettysburg ...most were loaded with more than one charge in them, many were found to be loaded up to 14 times without ever being fired. It is supposed that the men carrying them simply went "through the motions" so as not to have to shoot anyone and at the same time not let their friends down or appear a shirker. Love gave them the bravery.....funny aspect of war.

[@kimoandrews5802]

The real bravery was on the other side of the battlefield.

[@alkatraz8163]

They were, both Yankee and Confederate, our countrymen, my bretheren. That so many were sacrificed on this field saddens me deeply. I think of those who have shed blood in service to the United States, and hope they consider my service worthy.

[@XxBloggs]

Well weren’t the confederates simply insurrectionists? Just like Trumps drones? They were trying to destroy the country, they should have been forgotten and condemned to history.

[@morrison3599]

I wish the Cconfederates would have never continue to choose slavery. Then all these would have never died this way.

[@doncook2054]

@@morrison3599 Spot on!

[@kirkmorrison6131]

They should have freed the slaves and then fired on Ft Sumpter

[@myroselle6987]

@@morrison3599 Most of them weren’t fighting for slavery. They were fighting for the rights of their states to govern themselves without the interference of the federal government. It became more about slavery as it went on but the VAST majority of confederate soldiers were not slave owners. It’s a very difficult thing. And, fun fact, Confederate Major General George Pickett was a great admirer of Abraham Lincoln. He wouldn’t allow anyone to speak badly of Lincoln in his presence. And now, so many many years later, we’re told by race baiters and perpetual victims that the sacrifice, even of the yankee troops, meant absolutely nothing! They say we’re still where we were. It’s SHAMEFUL!

[@skimmer8774]

General Armistead had to know he was taking his last breath when he held his hat up and charged. These Gettysburg videos have been very moving. Nice work👍

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

I would think so. Got a little more on Armistead in the next video.

[@johnminter5359]

I’ve been there several times It’s very humbling to stand there and look out across that field There is a small marker inside the angle walls where General Armistead fell. I always make a point to visit that marker

[@Deathtroopers09]

@@TheHistoryUnderground Richard Jordan also did an amazing final performance in the role and died of a brain tumor while the film was in postproduction.

[@dannygreenii5611]

I walked that most "IMHO" place.... I broke down in a weeping and sobbing manner. It was 10+ years ago and still as I think of that field.... It sends me too my knees

[@karencrawford4068]

As it does me. Profoundly sad.

[@Wilett614]

VERY HALLOWED Ground INDEED ... Thousands of young Men and older Perished on that Field ...And they were ALL AMERICANS ..

[@MiJacFan1]

I have heard that Culloden has the same effect on people. To be totally decimated like that, imagine.

[@karencrawford4068]

@@MiJacFan1 I have heard that, too. My folks went there when they traveled in Scotland. My mom said that that intense sadness feeling was intensivised by the "haunting" beauty of the local.

[@karencrawford4068]

@Ray Jones I can only imagine. Demoralizing. Humiliating. Profoundly unexpressive anger. To name a few.

[@bradleyc8414]

Looking forward to it. I have an acquaintance who’s paternal great-great-great grandfather survived Pickett’s Charge (I recall him saying he was with a N.C. Unit) and was captured by Union Cavalry on July 5th while on a foraging party. He was sent to a northern POW camp, for a period of time, until he wrote to President Lincoln for a pardon. His request was eventually granted, he took an oath to the U.S., and he returned to his Swedish immigrant family in Connecticut (where he moved to N.C. from). He never crossed the Mason -Dixon Line for the remainder of his life. Kind of cool story.

[@shawnp6744]

My Great-Great Grandfather was in the Washington Artillery which fired the first shots of Pickett's charge. I have been to Gettysburg 4 times and I see something new every time.

[@jamesdovel6967]

I’m in Texas right now and have a much better understanding of Texas, and the men who fought for her! Lee once said, and I paraphrase, if I had held another two divisions of Texans I might have won that war! I understand.

[@davemckenzie6493]

The NC regiments were in the worst of the fighting on Day 1 and Day 3. One quarter of Confederate casualties at Gettysburg were North Carolinians.

[@rascal211]

@@jamesdovel6967 I don't see anywhere where Lee said that.

[@nora22000]

@@jamesdovel6967 He would have gotten them killed like all his other men...

[@frankfrank1168]

We’ve walked Pickets charge multiple times. The feeling you get is you are actually embedded with the troops. You can almost feel the cannonade, smell the burned powder, and sweat. Doing that mile walk, you become a part of history. Great doc!!!! Keep up the good work!!

[@Handleitlol]

I can only imagine the feeling of walking out of the trees knowing what is about to happen…I hear Ken back to the movie Gettysburg when Armistead talks to the French ambassador and says these men would make this charge with no officers…true courage

[@NCFlightOps]

Glad to see this!! My 3d Great Grandfather Jeremiah A Snider was killed during the charge somewhere between Emmittsburg Rd and the stone wall near the angle. He was with the 11th NC Regiment.

[@ChineseChicken1]

You should read the book “Lee's Tar Heels: The Pettigrew-Kirkland-MacRae Brigade” the 11th NC was in that Brigade. My G-G-Grandfather was in the 44th NC in the same Brigade.

[@scanders85]

My 3rd Great Grandfather, John Walls, was on the other side. Company B of the 69th PA.

[@willoutlaw4971]

The 18th N. Carolina Regiment was the best. They killed Stonewall Jackson in May, 1863.

[@shawnp6744]

Great-Great Grandfather's unit fired the first shots of the charge. Washington Artillery of New Orleans. Captured at the Wilderness Campaign at 18. He was penniless at 19 and went to south Georgia after the war.

[@johnoakes3106]

I'm glad that the monument to the 11th Mississippi was shown briefly in the beginning of the show. My great-grandfather was in this unit, survived and lived a very long life.

[@rogerschwartz6225]

Your Gettysburg series inspired me to finally watch Ken Burns’ Civil War series. Getting the macro view was a perfect complement to seeing you walk the battlefield. It just brought it all to life. It boggles the mind how far the southern troops had to “charge” all the while being under constant fire to reach Union lines.

[@willoutlaw4971]

Suicide charges were Robert E. Lee's signature move.

[@MichaelHeal99]

A relative of mine, Union 19th Maine Volunteers, died at Pickett's Charge. They were left flank to the 20th Maine on the line.

[@carlhelms595]

Wish there'd been a bunch more that joined him.

[@christopherh4653]

@@carlhelms595 You won't rise again. Ever. How's it feel knowing your best days were short-lived and over 100 years ago?

[@carlhelms595]

@@christopherh4653 LOL My best days? I think I'm living some of those right now but thank you. So head back under your bridge there troll. Maybe you can sit there and watch your cities burn because of those you liberated. So far it's been a great show from where I'm sitting.

[@MichaelHeal99]

@@carlhelms595 so, I post as a memorial to my relative who died and you wish more joined him? You just showed your true character. If you were to honor a family member I would certainly not respond with such a gruesome statement. Being racist must be a form of mental illness. Hating people because they are different than you is beyond sensible.

[@MichaelHeal99]

@@carlhelms595 I had 2 family members in 'Colored' regiment's. I'm just as proud of them as any other. Let me ask you an honest question, would you be ashamed of them if they were related to you?

[@tjo1976]

Thank you for showing the 11th Mississippi Infantry statue. I recently discovered that so many soldiers in that unit shared my mother's maiden name which is not a common name (and from the region where she was born). I knew this regiment was at Gettysburg and that there was a statue but I hadn't seen it. When you panned across it at the beginning of the video it certainly caught my attention. Thank you for all you do JD. Always informative and respectful.

[@recon11b1p6]

I've walked that field and after doing so I could understand why Pickett hated General Lee. Pickett's men were sent into a complete massacre. That Hallowed Ground I'll never walk on again. 🙏

[@jeffsmith2022]

Just think of the incredible courage those soldiers possessed to obey that order knowing that many of them faced certain death...have to admire that...

[@LittleAnastasia...]

@@jeffsmith2022 fine line between bravery and stupidity.

[@stephenkammerling9479]

JEB Stuart tried to hit the Union in the rear during Picketts charge, but was stopped cold by George Armstrong Custer(a man I disliked, but he was useful at times). If Stuart is successful, maybe we're talking about a different outcome. There's so many "what ifs" in war.

[@stevek8829]

Fragging wasn't invented. Yea, if you stand there all you can think is WTF make a new plan.

[@davec8730]

@@LittleAnastasia... i didn't want to be the one that said that, but just as the british did in ww1, men obeyed the orders from their 'betters' in society. 'walk towards the machine guns' lions led by donkeys. what continuously puzzles me is WHY a commander of lee's capability, copies what burnside did at fredricksburg against longestreet? uphill, a stonewall providing cover for the defenders, it makes no sense, manoeuvring was lee's strength.

[@nancywood9531]

I just found your videos today JD. My great grandfather ,Stephen Wilkins ,was in The Iowa 7th regiment. He fought in 180 scrimmages and battles during the 4 years he fought. He was hit in the hand by a musket ball in battle at Corinth. He had 2 fingers shot off but wrapped his handkerchief around his hand and continued to fight on.. He was among the Iowa regiment that did not retreat at Shiloh and defeated the southern troops there that held the line for the union army at Shiloh. Other Union army units fled in fear of a huge attack by Confederate troops that tricked them into thinking they had many more troops than they actually had.. He battled 4 years and returned home. I have his discharge papers. He died at 93 years old but always wore his civil war medal on his suitcoat with such pride. I SUBSCRIBED to you today with hopes of learning so much more about these battles his Iowa unit fought in. You are doing an amazing job gand great service to us.... the surviving members of those civil war soldiers. God bless you. ⚘🙏⚘

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Wow! Thanks for sharing that and thanks for the sub!

[@nancywood9531]

@@TheHistoryUnderground the confederate troops fooled the waiting union soldiers at Shiloh by forming a single person parade of soldiers, cart with Cannon, horse mule umits and traveling through the very edges of the Forrest, in and out of the edge , then they would circle back around inside the woods and circle through again making the union scouts think they had a massive amount of soldiers and cannons when in fact it was a small amount just circling on edge then into woods and back around, out of sight recircling..... Union troops fled in fear at Shiloh but Iowa unit stayed and fought with , I believe, Illinois or Indiana unit. The war would have been different maybe had they not stopped confederat advance there. I would love for you to report on that battle at Shiloh. Thanks JD.

[@gregclancyconstructioninc.5607]

I and my wife have visited Gettysburg four times. Culp's Hill, the Peach Orchard, the Wheat Field, Little Round Top; words can't describe standing at the Angle knowing what occurred there. It brings me to tears.

[@craigjohn3524]

Im from Tasmania Australia and the american civil war has always been fascinating for me,ive read numerous books about Gettysburg regarding this charge,General Lee made his biggest mistake that day,how he expected 12000 troops to succeed in open ground under artillery and musket fire is just suicidal.too all soldiers on both sides,you were all brave men in that civil war campaign, excellent documentary too,great work.ive now subscribed so i dont miss out on anything else, cheers.

[@doncook2054]

That was Lee's exhibition of uncaring.

[@pattyconley4096]

@@doncook2054 I think he cared but he became arrogant and delusional. Maybe overly confident?? Just my opinion

[@johngilmer6782]

Gen. Lee was counting on his opening cannon barrage to soften the Union's defenses. When this failed the assault was a suicide mission. Lee gambled and lost.

[@zachv1942]

The Civil War after effects are still being felt.

[@kenduffy5397]

@@pattyconley4096 There is theory that it’s possible that Lee may have had a Stroke & I believe that may be true??? We’ll never know, unfortunately. I’m more angry with Longstreet! He should have relieved Lee of his duties! Because “Pickets Charge” made ZERO sense militarily & Longstreet knew it! Well, I guess it’s better that Longstreet (who was an excellent General, in my humble opinion) didn’t take charge of the situation, because the war would have just gone on & on & on for another year or two & I don’t know if the Northerners would have become war-wary or not? It is possible? It’s also not Possible? As it was, an entire Southern generation was killed, horribly, (for what? The rich man)?! Just horrific! There is NO POSSIBLE WAY in 2022 that we can relate to 19th Century Americana culture! It’s completely IMPOSSIBLE, regardless of your politics & or opinions about the war between the States!

[@michaelvaughn8864]

The music sounds eerie and haunting. It has a certain sadness and somberness to it😔 It fits Pickett's Charge almost perfectly💯

[@bpjr1899]

I learned more about this in 17 minutes than in years of movies and reading. Simply because you walked it and showed me it is uphill and the terrain with the details of those who were there. I was there with you. I was amazed the length of the charge going uphill in the open against an entrenched enemy with canons! As a former Soldier I find that suicidal....Lest we forget... Thank you from a fellow Origin Customer.......

[@stuartosborne5069]

My three great uncles were in the charge under Pettigrew in the 26th North Carolina. All three, miraculously survived the war. Granville, the oldest, was wounded 9 times during the Civil War, 3 times at Gettysburg. What a human tragedy!

[@kentziegenhagen2004]

An awesome job! Been to Gettysburg twice, on the 150th as a reenactor and another time with the family!

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks!

[@TheStealthDawg]

JD knows how long I’ve been waiting on his episode for Picketts Charge lol. He will be glad when I stop asking about it :-D. Looking forward to it my friend!

[@jimwilson7824]

It is almost overwhelming when you stand at the high water monument and look around realizing what had happened there. Time almost stands still. I’ve been at that spot twice and had the same feeling both times. Nice video. Really enjoyed it.

[@N4bpp1]

Wonderful series, one thing that movies can’t realistically present is the tremendous noise of combat . The noice is debilitating , disorienting and frighting . You can’t hear yourself, nor what’s going to happen. In Vietnam I have never ever been so afraid when our camp was being shelled . Your series is first class and thank you. Walking Pickets charge to the angle should be experienced by all.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks! Can’t imagine what the sound must’ve been like.

[@maxmaximus6671]

You get a weird vibe when you visit these historic battlegrounds, it's like a 6th sense.

[@bobgoogle8641]

Yea I was at the battlefield today

[@kurtbaker4078]

Simply put, you're not alone walking those sacred battle grounds.

[@maxmaximus6671]

@@kurtbaker4078 Absolutely, those spirits are there.

[@michaeldouglas1243]

Absolutely. Cold chill vibes like the spirits are with you

[@victorianidetch]

@@kurtbaker4078 I was on horseback near Devil's Den on a trail and had stopped for a moment. I heard a voice beside me say "You sit a horse terribly!" No one near but me and horse, so yes they are all around and very judgmental.

[@fredhanosky6176]

I visited Gettysburg five times over the years. To stand in the same locations these soldiers fought and shed so much blood in this battle is a moving experience. Definitely hallowed ground.

[@VloggingThroughHistory]

Fantastic yet again my friend. I'm so glad to see your views and subs taking off the last few weeks. I have no doubt this Gettysburg series is a big reason why.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks, man. Appreciate that. I’ve been enjoying your work as well.

[@dbach1025]

@@TheHistoryUnderground is a collaboration in the works gents? I know you were both at Toccoa, but I mean hooking up and doing a series together. I think your fans would lose their minds with excitement. A reaction video would be alright, but i am talking real life visit somewhere and together show us some history. Love both of your work.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

@@dbach1025 🤔

[@dbach1025]

@@TheHistoryUnderground tease. Emotional manipulator. Lol

[@alan30189]

Yes, he’s excellent. I wish I had him as my history teacher.

[@vinniemigliano5268]

I’ll be there in a month, and can’t wait to walk these fields again. The horror of July 3, 1863 must have been unimaginable. Thanks for posting.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Awesome! If you haven't been to it yet, the Gettysburg Museum of History is AWESOME!

[@vinniemigliano5268]

Thanks for the tip! It’s on my to do list, but it was closed the last 3 times I visited Gettysburg. Hopefully I’ll luck out next time. Again, thanks for all the videos and keep up the great work.

[@bassojjb22]

MY GGGRANDFATHER CHARGED WITH THE 24TH VIRGIA INFABTRY REGIMENT.

[@johnwesolowski7393]

Three times I took a boy scout troop to Gettysburg the first week of July. Each time we hiked about 40 miles in a three day weekend. When they walked Pickets charge, they understood how long it took to cover that distance. The area between Devil's Den and Little Round Top was also interesting since sharpshooters were effective at that distance.

[@erickstiner1668]

History was my favorite subject in school. But, I have learned so much more from watching this series, than I did in school. You’re truly a gifted educator and historian. Thank you JD for a beyond excellent series.

[@Bam_Like_Dat]

Ooh, July 3...didn't see that coming. Well played. jd.....well played. Cant wait!!

[@neilpage901]

Another great way of telling this epic fight. As you say, there are literally 1,000s of resources out there - yep, and I have read many. But I like the way you condense it all and tell a story for ordinary people, not historians, to get their heads around. I am not even American but am English, a real student of your civil war. I have walked that mile a couple of times, most recently only last year. I have stood on that angle and marvelled - and wept. The bravery (of both sides) was immense and having been there, I cannot imagine that I could have done what any of those guys did. Could I charge that mile? Could I face that charge? I am really not sure I could have even as a rash, younger man. God bless them and God bless them all.

[@tresannrn8454]

Very humbling indeed. Thank you for not taking sides as every man out there were Americans. We have to learn from these things. Together we are strong.. divided, we lose! Love your channel.

[@xvsj5833]

“JD” Once again you captured my interest in a non comparison way regarding history. I thoroughly enjoy listening to you’re remarks. Thank you for sharing and have a fabulous 4Th of July🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 ✌️🚒🚒 Jesse

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thank you! Have a safe and happy 4th!

[@bullhead900]

I have done this walk before, it gave me chills.

[@10Bdog10]

Walked it with my son last year, same chills.

[@TheJrzdevil]

Why? 😆 what a dork!

[@bullhead900]

@@TheJrzdevil Don't be a horses ass.

[@Deathtroopers09]

I’ve really wanted to do this but each time I go I don’t out of respect

[@91Redmist]

Crazy crazy crazy. What was Lee thinking, ordering such an attack in that situation? It boggles the mind.

[@madcatster]

Thanks for this. My great-great grandfather, Horace Blaisdell, was wounded on July 3, 1863 during this battle. He was with the 13th Vermont Infantry, Company G.

[@bluedogreddogstumpy5868]

Iv just discovered this channel and I have to say it is exceptional! I’m an older Aussie- my father was one of the famed rats of Tobruk during ww2. I find my thirst and fascination with military history has become almost insatiable so to find a channel as good as this is truly a pleasure. Well done! Looking forward to more content.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks!

[@charlesmcclellan1095]

My wife and I really enjoy and appreciate your channel. I cannot even begin to imagine participating in what went on during the Pickett-Pettigrew-Trimble charge. One can read all the books and scrutinize all the maps but until one actually walks the same path and stand at the same position which you have afforded no one can truly appreciate their efforts and sacrifices. Thank you J.D. Kudos! Keep up the good work.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Well said. Thanks!

[@drkskyes]

If you take the walk and stop and stand quietly, you can hear the scream of brave men as they breathed their last.

[@heygetoffmylawn1572]

Excellent historical portrayal. Thank you for this vid. Keep up the great work. Well done. 👍

[@TheCanopy1]

Subscribed! Your work: story line, cinematography. delivery, is outstanding! Thank you for what you do.

[@KowboyUSA]

Lived to see our 1776 bicentennial and even the Pickett's Charge centennial. May those no longer with us R.I.P.. Happy 4th of July everyone.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Both would've been something to see in person.

[@KowboyUSA]

@@TheHistoryUnderground Was born shortly after WWII. If per chance I live into my 90s I'll witness the V-E and V-J centennials ( assuming the woke crowd hasn't cancelled them for being "fascist" or some other crap ).

[@theHAL9000]

Extraordinary and well-done! For me you captured the scene so well leaving me with a "right there" feeling about what I was seeing. Terrific job!

[@warrenkatz1469]

Great ! I like that you walked the walk. It gives,a great visual of how far and difficult the Terrain was.

[@briscoeparanormal7178]

I’ve been to the Gettysburg Battlefield countless times in the 40+ years since my first visit when I was 10 years old. The first time on the field I felt a mysterious bond to the battlefield since. I just wanted to let you know that your series on the battle and other bits of history is just AWESOME, honestly the best on Gettysburg, thank you so much for your countless hours working on and your knowledge of the Battle at Gettysburg.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thank you. That really does mean a lot to me.

[@Spike9803]

Yes, what he said. I really like your videos. I'm enjoying your Normandy series. Very worthwhile and informative.

[@hooper4581]

Outstanding JD. Well done 👍. Greatly appreciate your vids. Thanks for taking us along!

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@thomasgargano8813]

Thank you for your love of our history, ……. and for your part of this documentary, …..the true history of the charge is told, …….just think,…..to work to the seminary ridge, knowing that the cannon with the grape shot is waiting for you, but your Believe in South is greater Then your life. My wife and I have walked the gauntlet of their demise. The pain and agony of the charge to the Seminary ridge, I can feel the heat of July day,the long March to the enemies line. This is a true history of our country!! This is what America is, to sacrifice our self. All This and all the lives lost,is our history. May they all Rest In Peace, North and South.👍👍👍💕💕💕

[@shawnp6744]

Nice video. My Great-Great Father was in the Washington Artillery out of New Orleans. They fired the first shots of Picketts charge. He was 17 years old at the time of Gettysburg.

[@chadcardoza8987]

1st VA Kemper's Brigade, Pickett's Division descendant here. As well as 61st Georgia Gordon's Division. The perspective you bring of the history teacher enthusiastic to keep learning and sharing that knowledge is great. Looking forward to watching you take that walk today. You have to walk it to really understand.

[@lJSMosbyl]

Walked that ground many times. Glad you pointed out the Louisiana monument. The Mississippi and Longstreet monuments and amazingly dramatic/photogenic in the early morning light. And yes, if you like cannons, (in every size and description) West Confederate Ave is a day unto itself. I also liked how you framed the video; a personal experience of a place makes history tangible. That's why it's amazingly important to save these places. Thank you again JD!

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks! Appreciate that. I was pretty apprehensive about this one. Lots of strong opinions 😅

[@lorij323]

You have a way of telling that story that completely draws me in. I love your videos, and learn something every time. Thank you so much for what you do.

[@andrea6421]

I’ve been so busy and haven’t had time to watch your videos, I’m catching up today and you never disappoint! What a great video, I’m so glad I know a little more about pickets charge and Gettysburg. Thank you 😊

[@michaelewert8310]

Respectful presentation. I've walked that field. It feels erie, weird, devastating and peaceful. One cannot imagine how terrible that day was.

[@robertpayne2717]

Yes you can feel the Devine Pre

[@robertpayne2717]

Yes you can definitely feel the Devine Precence of God there at Gettysburg.

[@robertpayne2717]

The effects of grapeshot was horrendous

[@CSchnell-lj1io]

The music you choose for your videos is haunting, yet soothing in a mysterious way, reminds me of the HBO series "Deadwood", quite poingnant and apropos. Love your videos and your enthusiasm, take care and wish you and yours the best! Happy independence day!!! Long live the Republic!

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks so much!

[@CupheadAleks]

This is such a great series. It’s one thing reading about these skirmishes and watching documentaries explaining it. But showing the actual terrain and locations where these men fought has been mind blowing. Thank you for this series!

[@JoeSmith-tp9wq]

I absolutely LOVE The History Underground! Man, I think your channel is one of the best things out here. I love history and especially love U.S. History - keep up the good work!!

[@Wreckdiver59]

I don't remember JD doing a premier before. This ought to be interesting. Reminder set 👍 Edit: well done JD. Really enjoying the series 👍

[@karencrawford4068]

When I look across that rolling sea of green, what see is carnage. Absolute carnage. Very sad.

[@christinesnell7223]

You do such a wonderful job! Wish I could walk those grounds with you. Gettysburg homes are great also!

[@krboldt1]

I discovered your videos today. Totally enjoyed them!!!! My ancestor was with the 4th Texas Hoods Texas Brigade at Gettysburg!!

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Awesome! Thanks for watching. There's a lot on this channel that you may find interesting :)

[@roberthenry9319]

Awesome episode, as always from History Underground. Always.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@scurfie2343]

I fondly remember visiting the battlefield back in the early 60's. The one thing that I remembered was the small ground-level monument that said "The High Water Mark". I wonder if it's still there.

[@robertmoyer175]

JD, visited Gettysburg Museum of History yesterday, stopped at MR G’s again for ice cream and than walked the path from the Virginia monument to the Angle. It was mid 80’s and I had a difficult time trying to get a firm understanding as to what these men experienced. Hot, wool uniforms and bombs bursting all around them. When I got to Emmitsburg Road, I was overwhelmed as to how many men died where I was standing. Later, I again went on the Auto Tour, this time with my wife. Sharing what I have learned on my own, from watching your videos and what information the tour guide you provided on our meetup helped me add additional facts than what was on the CD. Thanks again for ALL the hard work you do.

[@davidstepeck2644]

Now I’m hooked and a new subscriber! I’ve been to Gettysburg over two dozen times and your videos do the soldiers justice. I’m a member of a Union reenactment group located in Gettysburg and am enjoying your content very much.

[@bradelton3609]

Over a mile in an open frontal assault! Unbelievable! It is a wonder any of them survived.

[@davec8730]

SHOCKING appalling decision, can anyone tell me WHY?

[@alecs6492]

It’s amazing that they are able to preserve as much of the battlefield and the town as they have. Here in California a huge developer Corp would have bought it all and built a strip mall or high density condo on it. Ugh Love to see the history preserved, kudos to the civil war preservation society.

[@Bygre]

There were a series of lawsuits to rid Gettysburg of some really horrible tourist traps. It took years to secure the restoration and preservation of the battlefield.

[@renatoelis8421]

I very much want to thank you for having transported us back in time and walking through the countryside where so many walked for the last time in their lives. Thanks again for the magnificent lesson on the history of the Picket's Charge on Battle of Gettysburg and for such an extraordinary video.

[@michaelvaughn8864]

I could imagine hearing it in my head as I'd walk it the mile from Seminary to Cemetery Ridges

[@lindsaymacpherson8782]

A lot of history here that makes me sad this ever happened but i guess it was meant to be Great Video JD Thankyou

[@BigLisaFan]

When we were there, people talked in whispers and even the young children were quiet and well behaved. None were playing "soldier" and pretending to be one side or the other. A fellow commented on the silence, the distance the soldiers had to cover over open ground, and said that while they may have been considered as the enemy at that time, but were certainly the bravest American soldiers. He had been there many times, but the ground was to him like being in a church, and other people seemed to sense that and it certainly had that feeling. He also asked where had come from because our accents were different and warmly welcomed us. Told his wife these folks travelled all the way from Canada just to come here. I think the sound of the barrage could be heard some 30 miles away. Can't imagine what it must have been like to have been there at the source.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

That place is certainly something else. Can't wait to go back and tell more stories from there.

[@mustangmanmustangman4596]

Excellent job! I have watched many documentaries and accounts of pickets charge but this video truly brings this charge into a reality that is very difficult to bear! Thank you for showing this imense sacrifice!

[@bobbispi]

I've taken the auto drive tour of the battlefield several times, and it has always been a moving experience.

[@stevecockrell8639]

JD another great video, thank you sir! Last time I was there I had watched Gettysburg again prior. Standing at both sides was humbling to think of the carnage that transpired those three days. First time Lee took a huge gamble without having complete advantage was his ultimate downfall. Union troops did an amazing job holding the little ground they had also. Imagine the momentum if the Confederacy had succeeded in crushing the line? Damn

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks!

[@dianeburnejko2908]

How could this charge have ever been considered a good idea? Such horrible human suffering. Great shots in the video & informative as always 👍

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

I could give all kinds of explanations but when I stand at the high water mark and look back at Cemetery Ridge, the whole thing seems crazy.

[@2007bing]

You can feel a great sadness when walking across that field. Can’t explain it.

[@jspence601]

Absolutely fascinating. Thank you for sharing JD. I enjoy this site so much.

[@donnicholas7552]

I was there looking at over the field where the Confederates charged. What in the world was Lee thinking? It was suicide for those guys.

[@davidedbrooke9324]

As I understand it the confederates thought their cannonade had silenced the union guns but in fact they were pausing for re arming with fresh ammunition !

[@markdavie6203]

Lees original plan could well have worked .if it had been followed

[@jamesedwards2483]

Would Love To See You Vlog About Shiloh, Vicksburg, And Fredericksburg!!!

[@familytreenutshistorygenealogy]

Definitely an epic part of history that so many of us have heard of. This video brings us there.

[@mastermariner7813]

JD, you and ABT do an unbelievable job presenting and preserving Our History. Thanks once again.

[@danceygamble693]

Beautiful statue, I hope it survives what is happening in 2021.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Me too.

[@BigLisaFan]

Any statue, memorial , marker or plaque there should be federally protected by the US Government. They are beautiful works of art in their own right and art belongs to all people and a demented, misguided few do not have any right to remove, vandalize or destroy any art, monument or memorial on the battlefield or any other place for that matter. If they actually studied and learned their history, maybe they might understand things a whole lot better.

[@cynthiacronin2794]

I think if any group of stupid people tried anything anywhere at Gettysburg, they would have a huge surprise!!! People would come out and the woodwork to protect and defend this hallowed ground.**out of***

[@victorianidetch]

@@TheHistoryUnderground No one will be permitted to touch any monument in Gettysburg, believe me. We may be hicks here but we believe strongly in the Second Amendment. Such nonsense will not be allowed on that hallowed ground.

[@danielpurcell7395]

@@victorianidetch if you need assistance in protecting them please give me a holler, I’m just up the road in Pittsburgh, Pa.

[@maxmedlin4875]

Can you imagine the shear bravery, dedication, and valor that it must have took to walk that mile under fire , getting up to the union line and face 5000 rifles.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Those guys were made from a different material.

[@kipmarsh1305]

No, I cannot imagine what they all did that day.

[@klsc8510]

I am a retried MI Army National Guardsman that served in Iraq. I was in the Signal Corps. I cannot imagine the courage or fortitude of those men that day. I am glad I was trained to fight in other ways. None though is fun.

[@stevek8829]

It was only 3/4 mile. Piece of cake.

[@4thamendment237]

In a word, no. Unimaginable courage and devotion to duty. "Walking that mile under fire" means that the farther you got, the more you were seeing those men in front and either side of you disappearing in mists of red and traumatically amputated body parts flying in all directions. How could you keep going?! With unimaginable courage and devotion to duty.

[@willtobias5280]

Amazing video, thankyou. It's so interesting to see the details like the undulating ground and how it feels at the 'angle' and the copse of trees. So grave what happened there.

[@williambechmann6547]

Once again, outstanding job! Your Gettysburg National Military Park video series are wonderful, JD!!!

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks!

[@anchorageprepper9008]

I had the honor of walking Pickett’s charge with the NPS’s leading expert on Gettysburg. While walking the charge’s path he explained what was going on during this charge in excruciating detail. I was struck by many things that day but what I remember the most was the bravery that it took to walk this route under the withering fire from the Union Army. It was unbelievable that anyone survived that charge!

[@bradleyc8414]

Can’t wait!

[@nosferatudavies8836]

Absolutely brilliant video.Very well explained and actually being there brings this to life.Thankyou.

[@chrisloudermilk6502]

Well done JD really enjoying your commentary on the battles and conflicts I've been to Gettysburg walked the Battle fields listening to you makes it feel I'm in step with you senses are keen Battle on going heart feels heavy for all the fallen soldiers on both sides really enjoy you JD thank you sir

[@shiloh6519]

Excellent presentation. I'll just add that one of the reasons the charge failed. Was that hundreds perhaps thousands of confederate troops simply refused to advance past that fence along the Emmitsburg road. They simply hunkered down along it.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Good point. Thanks.

[@4thamendment237]

It's hard to hold the discipline of an order when it means continuing to engage in an obviously suicidal mass slaughter. Those Confederates who stopped there are to be respected as much for doing so as those who continued forward. Neither should be faulted.

[@kdsuibhne]

A relative of mine was awarded the CMoH for his actions at Gettysburg. His brigade was in the center of the Union line during Pickett’s Charge.

[@swedejohanson7739]

Great Video. I’ve walked that battlefield w my dad many years ago. It’s just a beautiful piece of land that has been kept up and protected. Man I hope it stays that way.

[@billyd2007]

Thank you for your thoughtful commentary and insights. I appreciate that you're helping keep those frightful times in perspective.

[@TheHistoryUnderground]

Thanks! Hopefully people are sharing the videos and it’s doing some good.