James Hessler is an award-winning Civil War historian, author, speaker, and Licensed Battlefield Guide at Gettysburg National Military Park, where he has been interpreting the battle since 2003. Recognized for his ability to bring complex history to life with clarity, depth, and humor, Hessler is one of the most respected voices in Gettysburg scholarship and public history today.

He is the author or co-author of four major works on the Gettysburg Campaign: Sickles at Gettysburg (2009), Pickett’s Charge at Gettysburg (2015), Gettysburg’s Peach Orchard (2019), and his most recent release, The First Day at Gettysburg (2024). His publications have earned several distinguished book awards, including the prestigious Bachelder-Coddington Literary Award, and his essays have appeared in respected outlets such as Gettysburg Magazine.

Beyond his publications and lectures, Hessler has become a prominent public historian, appearing on the History Channel, NPR, Travel Channel, PCN-TV, and in programs and content development with the American Battlefield Trust.

He is also the host of the acclaimed Battle of Gettysburg Podcast, where his scholarship and wit reach a global audience of history enthusiasts. Hessler is a frequent speaker for national and regional historical organizations, including numerous Civil War Round Tables, where his talks continue to spark discussion and deepen understanding of Gettysburg’s enduring story. Besides Gettysburg, Hessler has led battlefield tours at numerous sites across the country and served other organizations such as the Little Bighorn Associates.

Dedicated to preserving the memory of those who fought and interpreting the lessons of leadership, controversy, and sacrifice, James Hessler continues to educate, write, and guide from the fields of Gettysburg ensuring that its history remains both vivid and relevant today.