"If We Are Striking for Pennsylvania"

The Army of Northern Virginia and the Army of the Potomac March to Gettysburg: Volume 2: June 22-30, 1863

By: Scott L. Mingus Sr., Eric J. Wittenberg

Narrated by: Paul Heitsch

General Robert E. Lee's movement north shifted the war out of the central counties of the Old Dominion into the Shenandoah Valley, across the Potomac, and beyond. The first installment carried the armies through the defining clash at Battle of Brandy Station, after which Lee pushed his corps into the Shenandoah Valley and achieved victory at Second Winchester. Major General Joseph Hooker used his cavalry to probe the mountain gaps, triggering a series of consequential mounted actions. The current volume completes the march to Gettysburg and details the actions and whereabout of each of the armies.

The maneuvering prompted General Hooker to move his Army of the Potomac north after his opponent and eventually above the Potomac, where he loses command to Major General George G. Meade. Jeb Stuart begins his consequential ride that strips away the eyes and ears of the Virginia army. Civilians and soldiers alike struggle with the reality of a mobile campaign and the logistical needs of the armies.

Untold numbers of reports, editorials, news articles, letters, and diaries describe the passage of the long martial columns, the thunderous galloping of hooves, and the looting, fighting, suffering, and dying. Mingus and Wittenberg mined hundreds of primary accounts, newspapers, and other sources to produce this powerful and gripping saga.

©2023 Scott L. Mingus, Sr. and Eric J. Wittenberg (P)2023 Tantor

Historic narratives in context to the days before the battle of Gettysburg.

A good detailed discussion of the daily events preceding days before the battle of Gettysburg, not covered by any books I have read. It gives a very good view of how and why the armies ended in up Gettysburg.

Excellent view into the days ahead of Gettysburg

Very good insight to how the Pennsylvanians viewed the rebel army (and vice versa) as they moved around PA in advance of the battle.

Neglected campaign history well told

I have a much better knowledge of this sweeping campaign, especially through the eyes of the invaded. Also describes locations and mileages, so you see in your mind the pieces moving on the chessboard towards Gettysburg. Learned a a lot more about the role General Jenkins played as well. Very comprehensive, recommend the 2 vols. for serious students only.