This video features a discussion about Archer's Brigade at the Battle of Gettysburg, featuring two guests: LBG Charlie Fennell and AG Patron Matt McClanahan.

The conversation covers:

Formation and Background: How Archer's Brigade, primarily composed of Tennessee and Alabama units (like the 7th and 14th Tennessee Infantry and 5th Alabama Battalion), came to fight in the Eastern Theater. It highlights Tennessee's divided loyalties before the war and its late secession.
Command: Robert Hatton initially commanded the brigade until his death, after which James J. Archer, a Marylander, took over. Despite initial reservations from the troops, Archer earned their respect.
July 1st, 1863: The brigade's involvement in the opening hours of the battle. They advanced on McPherson's Ridge, encountering Union cavalry and the Iron Brigade. Due to difficult terrain and flanking maneuvers by Union forces, the brigade was severely impacted, and General Archer himself was captured. This was the first Confederate general captured during the war. The discussion also touches upon the death of Union General John Reynolds, likely by a soldier from Archer's Brigade.
Reorganization and July 3rd: After heavy casualties and losing Archer, Colonel Birkett D. Fry took command. The brigade was held in reserve on July 2nd, and despite their losses, they were part of Pickett's Charge on July 3rd, suffering further immense casualties.

Broader Context: The hosts and guests also discuss the general mindset of the Confederate command, the civilian population of Gettysburg, the impact of smoke and terrain on the battle, and the overall strategic decisions of Lee and Meade.