When businesses are aligned vertically and laterally with strategic intent understood and acted upon at all levels, they possess a tremendous competitive advantage. Battlefield Leadership draws from key moments in history – crucial decisions and communication events – to provide lasting techniques to improve business performance. The Battle of Gettysburg demonstrates the importance of team alignment, the danger of lost opportunities, and the importance of holding the high ground and communicating clear intent.
In south central Pennsylvania over the course of three days in July 1863 an unexpected Union victory proved to be the turning point of the American Civil War. It was the largest battle ever fought in North America, forever remembered by the name of the small town near which it was fought. It was also the last time legendary Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee was on the strategic offensive. The Union commanders’ alignment stood in stark contrast to that of the Confederates, who now lacked the cohesiveness that had previously brought them tremendous success. The compelling leadership dynamics that were at play in Gettysburg are remarkably relevant for contemporary business leaders.
