On the 150th anniversary of the U.S. Civil War, Heinz History Center President and CEO Andy Masich's mind is on the role of Pittsburgh and Pennsylvania in those historic events.
Michael Shaara, The Killer Angels
Detailing the events around four days in late June and early July, 1863, the story follows four men as they march into the field for what will become the bloodiest three days in American history.
Robert E. Lee leads the Confederate troops on an invasion of Pennsylvania, believing it is the only way the South can still force Washington to accept peace, and a Southern victory. By his side, James "Pete" Longstreet does not share Lee's optimism, and understands that this great fight could be the South's Waterloo.
On the Northern side, Cavalry General John Buford is the man on the spot, and heroically holds Lee's army back while the rest of the Union troops move into position on the valuable and crucial high ground of Cemetery Ridge. Leading a regiment to the far end of the line, Colonel Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain is told he must hold the flank, that his small command is the key to the entire Union position. Ordering his men to dig in, waiting for the inevitable assault from Longstreet's troops, the former college professor realizes that this is his destiny, commanding soldiers on a hill known as Little Round Top.
Ballantine Books
The Civil War in Pennsylvania: A Photographic History
The Civil War in Pennsylvania: A Photographic History exhibition will commemorate the sesquicentennial of the Civil War based on the book of the same name.
This major exhibit will feature a collection of rare and never-before-seen images highlighting Pennsylvanians' role on the battlefield and on the home front.
Heinz History Center
Arthur Fox, Pittsburgh During the American Civil War, 1860-1865
Pittsburgh During the American Civil War, 1860-1865 fills a large gap in the existing literature about Pittsburgh’s role in the Civil War. Historian Arthur B. Fox has painstakingly unearthed and researched archival materials to integrate the military, social, medical, business and economic facets of its history.
