What were each side objectives going into the campaign in the battle of gettyburg?

Answer 1

During the Battle of Gettysburg in July of 1863, the short-term objective for each side was to hold with superior force the field of battle at its conclusion. Holding the field would contribute powerfully to the long-term objectives of the combatants: for the South, continuing their invasion of the North; for the North, blocking the Southern advance and perhaps even initiating offensive action of their own.

Answer 2

Meade's goal was to block the South's escape routes, force a battle and, with luck, decisively destroy the Southern army. Lee hoped that, by threatening Northern population centers, he could force Northern politicians to sue for peace. In the end, even though Meade forced Lee to abandon the invasion, he could not follow through and destroy Lee's retreating forces.

Answer 3

Lee's goal was to terrorize northern civilians in the hopes of forcing Lincoln to the negotiating table. Meade's goal was to force Lee to abandon his invasion.