"The Battle of Gettysburg remains one of the most controversial military actions in America's history, and one of the most studied. Professor Coddington's is an analysis not only of the battle proper, but of the actions of both Union and Confederate armies for the six months prior to the battle and of the factors affecting General Meade's decision not to pursue the retreating Confederate forces. This book contends that Gettysburg was a crucial Union victory, primarily because of the effective leadership of Union forces - not, as has often been said, only because the North was the beneficiary of Lee's mistakes." -- From the back cover.

"This ed. is a reprint of the Morningside Bookshop hardcover ed." Notes on pages 599-821.

Lee prepares for a summer campaign, 1863 -- Hooker marks time -- Brandy Station, a double surprise -- Armies on the move -- Hooker bows out -- Pennsylvania prepares for invasion -- The Confederates plunder Pennsylvania -- The Confederates move to battle -- Meade takes over -- Arms and men -- Reynolds accepts a challenge -- The fruits of victory elude Lee -- Meade prepares for battle -- Lee plans an offensive -- The fight for Little Round Top and the peach orchard -- The whole Union line ablaze -- Lee and Meade ponder and plan -- Unfinished business: the Battle for Culp's Hill, July 3 -- Pickett's charge -- Retreat and pursuit -- Official rosters: Army of the Potomac -- Army of Northern Virginia.