THE BATTLE OF GETTYSBURG: JULY 2, 1863

On July 1, 1863, Robert E. Lee's invading Confederate army collides with Union forces in southern Pennsylvania at the crossroads community of Gettysburg. On the first day of the battle, the Confederates prevail, and the Union army retreats to two hilltop positions -- Cemetery Ridge and Culp's Hill. On July 2, Confederates attempt to dislodge the Federals, and the 1st Minnesota distinguishes itself in battle.

(1.) The 262 men of the 1st Minnesota take up a reverse position on the southern tip of Cemetery Ridge, at the edge of Gen. Winfield Scott Hancock's Second Corps.

(2.) In defiance of orders, Union Gen. Dan Sickles advances his Third Corps to what he considers a better position. But his move opens a gap between his men and the Third Corps, and makes it easier for Confederates to attack Sickles.

(3.) Confederate Gen. Pete Longstreet attacks Sickles, who eventually retreats toward Cemetery Ridge. Confederates charge the gap between him and the Second Corps. If they burst through, Confederates would be in a position to break the Union lines and win the battle.

(4.) Hancock, frantically trying to avert disaster, searches for re-inforcements, and spots the 1st Minnesota. He orders them to charge the advancing Confederates, now less than 100 yards away.

(5.) The 1st Minnesota attacks the Confederates. Only 47 of the 262 men survive, but they manage to slow down the rebel advance long enough to save the Union lines. More Union reinforcements arrive, and the Confederate attack is repulsed. Thanks to the 1st Minnesota, the second day of the battle ends in a draw. Lee begins planning an attack for the following day, which will feature the 28th Virginia.

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