The primary goal of the Confederate Army under Lee at Gettysburg was To invade the North and win a decisive battle.

Lee aimed to take the conflict into Northern territory to alleviate the strain on Virginia and to secure a major victory that might influence public sentiment in favor of the Confederacy. He also hoped that a successful invasion could lead to foreign recognition and support. Lee was convinced that a decisive triumph at Gettysburg could undermine Northern morale and shift the war's momentum in favor of the Confederacy.