James M. McPherson, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Battle Cry of Freedom, and arguably the finest Civil War historian in the world, walks readers through the Gettysburg battlefield -- the site of the most consequential battle of the Civil War. In Hallowed Ground, McPherson makes stops at key locations, including Seminary Ridge, the Peach Orchard, Cemetery Hill, and Little Round Top. He reflects on the meaning of the battle, colorfully describes the events of those terrible three days in July 1863, and places the battle and war in the greater context of American and world history. This is the first illustrated version of this groundbreaking and important book and includes vintage photographs, memorabilia, and maps, as well as full-color photography of the battlefields and historical landmarks as they stand today. Sidebars written by contemporary soldiers, statesmen, and women of the day, as well as pieces by some of today's best-known historians and writers, add context to this engaging book.