From July 1 through 3, 1863, Gettysburg was a place of conflict. But in the decades following that battle, it became a symbol of reconciliation.
Today, as we look at Gettysburg as both an event and as a destination, we realize that it the place: It is the place that symbolizes the utmost in patriotism. And it is a place where all Americans can honor the soldiers in Blue and Gray, stirred by their commitment to their beliefs.
We recognize the sacrifices made by each soldier and citizen, many of them new to this young country. Most of all, we recognize Gettysburg as a classroom for democracy. Here, by learning about the beliefs that propelled the conflict, the strategies set forth to act on those beliefs, and the mending and healing that occurred as a result, we discover who we are as a nation.
The level of involvement, the depth of commitment, and the scope of sacrifice at Gettysburg were unlike anything we could imagine today:
In 1860, the population of the U.S. was 31.4 million.
- 12.4% of the population – 3.8 million men – was enrolled in military service.
- 620,000 – 2% – would die.
In terms of today’s population of just over 300 million:
- More than 37.2 million would be enrolled in military service.
- More than 6 million would die.
No matter what our viewpoints, our backgrounds or our personal history, each of us can't help but be moved by this incredible act of self-sacrifice. Gettysburg is a tribute to true heroes of America. As President Lincoln stated, it is “a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live.”
