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How Did Joshua Chamberlain Affect The Outcome Of The Civil War?

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The Civil War was the bloodiest battle in America filled with countless heros. One hero in particular sticks out for his courage, leadership, strength, honor, and bravery. This man is Joshua Chamberlain. He had a quite a simple life up until the Civil War, working and caring for his family. Ordinarily, that changed when he decided to become a soldier to keep the Union together. At Gettysburg, Joshua Chamberlain made a big decision that ended up saving Little Round Top. This decision influenced not only the outcome of the battle, but the outcome of the war. His strong leadership was beneficial to the Union throughout the entire war, during various battles. After the war, he didn’t serve anymore, but he continued to make a constructive impact …show more content…

He didn't have much experience, but was eager to learn. In a correspondence to his wife, he writes, “I feel that it is a sacrifice for me to be here in one sense of the word; but I do not wish myself back by any means. I feel that I am where duty called me” (Chamberlain “Correspondence” 7). When Chamberlain joined the army, he became lieutenant colonel of the Twentieth Maine. They saw the bloody Battle of Antietam, but didn’t fight in it as they were stationed near Sharpsburg, Maryland (Hillstrom 74). Chamberlain eyes were opened during this time, as he saw the toll of the war. He knew he would have to lead and be strong, because others might not be. Chamberlain’s first real engagement was at the Battle of Fredericksburg. The attack was intense and severe, as they fought the Confederates fortified at Marye's Heights. Chamberlain received much fire, but with quick-thinking used dead soldiers as a defense. The next major battle was Chancellorsville, although they missed their chance again due to being quarantined for numerous cases of smallpox. Yet, Chamberlain rose in the ranks, becoming colonel and commander of the regiment (Heidler 389). It was time for him to show his bravery and admirable leadership. It was time for

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