Who was John Buford?
Why is Buford important at the Battle of Gettysburg?
Lee's invasion of Pennsylvania took place in the summer of 1863. Robert E. Lee was at Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, on June 30.
Buford's cavalry division would bring Gamble's and Devin's brigades to Gettysburg on June 30.
Pettigrew simultaneously advances from Cashtown toward Gettysburg to collect shoes. However, Pettigrew sees Buford at Gettysburg and returns.
But Henry Heth and AP Hill think they can oust Buford. The Confederates will attack the next day.
Buford realized the importance of the high ground south of the city, including Little Round Top, Big Round Top, Cemetery Hill and Culp's Hill. He decided to take a position on McPherson's Ridge, northwest of Gettysburg. Buford can use the dome of the Lutheran seminary to observe the approach of the different armies.
Heth headed for Gettysburg on July 1. Buford's advance troops reported his movements at Marsh Creek. Buford prepares on McPherson's Ridge.
Heth sent Archer and Davis forward, and they attacked the Chambersburg Pike. Buford's skirmishers delayed him at Willoughby Run.
Buford's soldiers retreated to McPherson's Ridge. But General Reynolds has arrived. The Iron Brigade led by Meredith blocks Archer and Davis. Wadsworth's division was now on the ground to counter the Confederates.
However, Devin's soldiers reported that Confederates under Ewell were approaching from Heidlersburg, Pennsylvania. The Rodes division arrives towards the city from the north. Devin's skirmishers held him off until Howard's Corps arrived.
Buford's division managed to hold off A.P. Hill's and Ewell's forward elements long enough for Reynolds and Howard to arrive.
The heights south of the city were preserved for the Union.
This cartographic history film is directed by Jeffrey Meyer, historian and librarian.
Music credit:
Autumn Sunset by Audionautix is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Artist: http://audionautix.com/
Please take the opportunity to connect and share this video with your friends and family if you find it useful.
