decision making

One of the most tragic consequences of leadership conflict in the Civil War occurred on July 2, 1863, during the Battle of Gettysburg. The commanding general of the Army of the Potomac’s Third Corps, Major General Daniel Sickles, a controversial figure with a history of scandal, openly defied orders from General Meade. Meade had instructed…

On June 28, 1863, just days before the Battle of Gettysburg, Major General George G. Meade was abruptly awakened and informed that he was now in command of the Union Army of the Potomac. The previous commander, Major General Joseph “Fighting Joe” Hooker, had submitted a letter of resignation to President Abraham Lincoln and General…

The Civil War offers many leadership lessons, particularly regarding the dangers of personal conflict among leaders. The Union Army of the Potomac experienced firsthand how leadership dysfunction at the highest levels of the command structure led to profound consequences, most notably after the Battle of Chancellorsville, Virginia. One prime example is Major General Joseph “Fighting…

In Part 1, I wrote that leaders need to exercise discernment when subordinates ask questions because not every question is an automatic indication of conflict. General and President Dwight D. Eisenhower said, “May we never confuse honest dissent with disloyal subversion.” This requires a greater familiarity of your team members and an understanding of human…

It has been said that human beings are perfectly imperfect. Consequently, team conflict is inevitable. However, not all conflicts are bad. In fact, healthy debate and honest disagreement can lead to innovation and stronger team dynamics. Nevertheless, when conflict becomes toxic, it damages morale, reduces productivity, and creates a hostile work environment. As a leader,…