The Civil War Soldier : A Photographic Journey

This fascinating exploration of the life of an ordinary Civil War Soldier captures nearly every aspect of daily life on and off the battlefield. Vibrant photographs of Civil War reenactors have been hand-colored with a technique similar to one used in the 1860s to create an authentic feel. The accessible and informative text of each chapter is illuminated by first-person accounts, letters, and diary entries from actual Civil War soldiers. Learn about nearly every aspect of the soldier's life, including:
• Joining up with the army
• Training and equipment
• Camp Life
• Medicine, surgery, and doctoring
• Battle

See what it was like to be a soldier in one of the most defining conflicts in American history.

Adult/High School-Mathew Brady's photographs have riveted history buffs for years and they remain a vital source of Civil War information. It can be difficult, however, for young adults to find a commonality with the soldiers portrayed in those photos. The limitations of 19th-century photography and the faces, even young ones, that look so old can make it challenging for students to relate to these warriors who were often little older than themselves. Carson has succeeded in his attempt to rectify this situation. A photojournalist and a Civil War reenactor, he carried his camera equipment in a haversack during various reenactments, enabling him to capture an insider's view of Civil War scenes. Taking the photos in black and white, he then hand colored a number of them using techniques similar to those of the 19th century. The reality of the scenes, especially those of death on the battlefield, is truly compelling. Quotes from the letters and journals of Civil War soldiers, along with their names and the armies to which they were attached, add to the veracity of the scenes portrayed. The book ends with the surrender of the Confederate army and the aftermath for the surviving soldiers. Hard to put down, this book offers a realistic peek into the life and times of the three million young men who, for a grueling five years, fought, marched, and died.-Carol DeAngelo, Kings Park Library, Burke, VA

Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.