A Surprise Appointment

General George Meade was made commander of the Army of the Potomac June 28, 1863. He had proved himself a capable leader at the battle of Fredericksburg. His force contained the only Union troops that made a push through Confederate lines. His appointment came as a surprise because he had not sought a higher position. His first duty as commander of the Army of the Potomac, was the bloodiest battle in the war, the battle of Gettysburg.