Railroads in the Civil War

Railroads were developed in the 1820’s, however they were not realized for their importance until the Civil War. A strategy adapted by the Union only, gave the North a crucial advantage over the South. Transporting thousands of materials critical to soldier’s survival, such as food and water, prolonged and strengthened the fighting forces. 

Telegraphs in the Civil War

Utilized by President Lincoln, the development of telegraphs is believed to have won Lincoln and the Union forces the war. By establishing telegraphs in various places that proved crucial to receiving constant updates on the war, Lincoln was able to plan his next moves based off of information he received. Direct messages kept Lincoln up to date on Confederacy attacks as well as victories won by the Union. This investment by Lincoln was costly but well worth the victory.

Letters Sent in the Civil War

Often times, soldiers would be separated from their families for an extended amount of time. In order to communicate war updates and final goodbyes, men utilized their mail service. Letters from the beginning of the war have been recovered and documented by historians. 

African Americans in the Civil War

This strategy was only adapted by the Union forces, as this would go against the ideas of the Confederate forces. Realizing their lack of soldiers who would return from each battle, generals authorized African Americans to finally be able to serve their country and fight. For once, it did not matter the color of their skin, only if they had a dedication to protect their country. 

Photography in the Civil War

While the Civil War continued, stories would circulate throughout towns depicting the brutal scenes endured by some. With the introduction of photography, now people were able to witness the bloody scenes left by the opposing enemy. As the pictures developed, they were placed in newspapers. These pictures would also serves as documentation for future historians trying to piece together the events of the war.

Women in the Civil War

In addition to the off scene fighting, both the Union and Confederacy had to regenerate and heal their wounded soldiers. With the brutality of the Civil War, women were called upon to serve their country by volunteering their time to healing soldiers. Aside from that, they helped run the refugee camps, where soldiers would recuperate with food and water provided by these volunteers.