The Maelstrom of Enfilade Fire

Pickett's Charge, a pivotal moment in the Battle of Gettysburg, is remembered for the bravery of Confederate soldiers charging across open fields. However, a lesser-known factor significantly contributed to the devastating Confederate losses: enfilade fire.

Enfilade fire involves attacking the side of an enemy formation, hitting multiple soldiers and creating a psychological effect. During Pickett's Charge, the Confederate advance deviated from its intended path, leaving their right flank exposed. Union forces on the flank and strategically positioned artillery on Little Round Top rained enfilade fire on the Confederates, causing massive casualties and disrupting their formation. This enfilade fire is considered a major reason for the high number of Confederate casualties and the ultimate failure of Pickett's Charge.