Ep 3. High Tide of the Confederacy
- March 17, 1998
- 51 min
Peter Batty Presents: The Divided Union - The Story of the American Civil War is a five-part series that explores the history of America's Civil War. In episode 3, titled "High Tide of the Confederacy," viewers are taken on a journey through the war's turning point.
The episode begins with a brief review of the war's first two years and the Union's unsuccessful attempts to defeat the Confederate army. It then moves on to highlight the Confederate army's most significant victories, including the Battle of Fredericksburg, the Battle of Chancellorsville, and the Battle of Gettysburg.
Through detailed reenactments and accounts from historians and experts in the field, viewers gain a clear understanding of how the South's momentum peaked during this period. They learn about the strategies and tactics employed by Confederate General Robert E. Lee and his commanding officers, as well as the mistakes made by Union commanders.
Despite early success, the Confederacy ultimately failed to capitalize on their victories. The episode details how the Union was eventually able to turn the tide of the war by taking control of key ports and waterways and implementing a new strategy of total war.
As with the previous episodes in the series, "High Tide of the Confederacy" provides a balanced portrayal of the war's key players. It portrays both Union and Confederate soldiers as complex individuals driven by different motivations and ideologies. Through the use of firsthand accounts and detailed reenactments, viewers gain a sense of the real human cost of this devastating conflict.
Overall, "High Tide of the Confederacy" is a captivating episode that offers insightful analysis of the Civil War's pivotal moment. It is an absolute must-watch for history buffs, students, and anyone interested in understanding the forces that shaped modern America.