Was Little Round Top as Critical as Gettysburg Portrayed it?

The portrayal of the Battle of Little Round Top in the 1993 film Gettysburg has sparked significant debate. The movie suggests that the 20th Maine was the sole barrier between the Confederate Army and victory. However, is this depiction accurate?

Importance of Little Round Top

The position on Little Round Top was crucial. It anchored the left flank of the Federal lines and provided a commanding view over the rest of the battlefield. Losing this hill on the second day of the battle would not have resulted in an immediate collapse of Union defenses, but it would have made their position incredibly precarious.

What Would Have Happened if Little Round Top Fell?

If Little Round Top were to fall, the Confederate assault might have fizzled out due to the approaching darkness and the Confederate troops’ fatigue and heavy casualties. Union General George G. Meade would have faced significant pressure to relocate his army during the night, as dawn would bring another assault from the Confederates. Instead, the Federals spent the night fortifying their position, resting, bringing up reinforcements, and positioning their artillery. This readiness played a crucial role in repelling subsequent Confederate attacks.

The 20th Maine and Col. Joshua Chamberlain

The movie Gettysburg and the novel The Killer Angels focused heavily on the 20th Maine and Colonel Joshua Chamberlain for narrative purposes. The 20th Maine and their actions were indeed crucial in repelling the Confederate attack. This depiction, however, focuses on a more limited perspective of the larger battle.

More soldiers were involved in the defense of Little Round Top than the film suggests. The 3rd Brigade of the 1st Division, under Colonel Strong Vincent, comprised the line, and the 20th Maine was a key part of this brigade. Chamberlain’s heroics were genuine, and he earned the Medal of Honor for his actions.

Conclusion

The Battle of Little Round Top was indeed critical, but the film’s portrayal of the 20th Maine as the sole defensive force is a simplification. Many soldiers contributed to the successful defense of the hill, and Chamberlain’s actions were pivotal. Understanding the full scope of the battle provides a more accurate historical perspective.