Michael Shaara has written The Killer Angels. It is historical fiction that focuses on the Battle of Gettysburg, during the American Civil War. It explores many of the viewpoints of impacted Union soldiers and Confederate citizens. It is highly praised for its realistic portrayal of the conflict and its victims. The Killer Angels became a motion picture in 1993. The story’s protagonist is General Robert E. Lee who intends to invade the North. Union General George Meade has established a defense line close to Gettysburg (Pennsylvania) and Lee is familiar with his strategy. It lasts three days and begins on the 1st of July. Confederacy general James Longstreet, who is fighting to break Union lines is first (Shaara7). Lee will launch another assault when Longstreet pulls out his soldiers later on that day. Both sides suffered heavy losses as a result of this onslaught. This book is notable for its detailed account of the Battle of Gettysburg, and the effects it had on combatants. This book is told in the perspectives of several people including Union soldiers and Confederate citizens as well as politicians.
On July 3, General John Sedgwick, Union commander of the Union’s massive attack on the Confederate lines. Confederates retreat from this successful assault. Union soldiers march on Gettysburg and the people respond with joy. The victory, however, is fleeting as the Confederacy’s General James Longstreet launches a second counterattack (Shaara 10) The onslaught is also unsuccessful, leading to more deaths for both sides. Lee’s retreat to Virginia, and Meade’s victory at Gettysburg are the end of this story. This conflict resulted in more than 50,000 deaths on each side and culminated with a Union victory. This historical record, The Killer Angels, accurately portrays the fighting.
The Killer Angels is a well-written and believable story. General Robert E. Lee, a skilled military commander is depicted while General George Meade, a capable leader and master of maintaining the morale among his troops in difficult times. Civilians are also well represented in the novel. Clara Barton is an example of a nurse that helps wounded soldiers. Abraham Lincoln, on the other hand, is depicted as a competent politician. This historical record, the Battle of Gettysburg is accurately represented by The Killer Angels. It is well-drawn and realistic, with vivid depictions of the battle.