Gettysburg Through a Lens of Terrain and Topography
Abstract:
The use of terrain to a commander’s advantage in military situations has an extensive history to it. However, the specific concept of military geology, or the use of geologic understandings in military analysis, both historical and current, is a relatively unexplored and modern invention. The Battle of Gettysburg is a prime historical example of the impact geologic formations and processes can have on military actions. Through examining four examples — the multi-ridge system crossing the battlefield, the defense of Little Round Top, the usage of Devil’s Den, and the importance Cemetery Ridge played — these impacts can be drawn out to provide a stronger understanding of the Battle of Gettysburg, as well as other past, present, and future battles.