The Effects of the Civil War…

…on SoldiersBattles were typically noisy, chaotic, and bloody. Old-style tactics, like large frontal assaults, led to thousands being killed.

Conditions in field hospitals were awful. Poor sanitation led to many wounds becoming infected. Amputations, often without anesthesia, were common.

In camp, soldiers practiced marching and drills, but also had hours of free time.

Music was important. Soldiers sang patriotic songs before battle, but also song that reminded them of home.

…on African-Americans

The 54th Regiment was formed after the Emancipation Proclamation. At the Battle of Fort Wagner more than 40% of the regiment died, but they fought valiantly and helped win popular support of black soldiers.

White soldiers earned $13 a month while African-American soldiers earned $10 a month. Some regiments refused any pay.

Many black soldiers who were captured during battles in the South were often enslaved or executed rather than imprisoned like white soldiers.

In the end, about 196,000 African American soldiers fought in the Civil War.

…on WomenWomen in the North worked in textile mills and garment factories making uniforms. They also worked in government jobs like the postal service.

Women in the South worked at home making uniforms. They also worked in dangerous munitions factories, where accidents were common.

Clara Barton was a nurse who cared for hundreds of wounded soldiers.

Rose Greenhow was the most famous Confederate spy. She used her contacts to learn about Union troops movements.