Robert Steinmetz

It may have seemed like a fun diversion for everyone at first. The war would be over in 90 days. But after 1st Bull Run the outlook of many people was a lot different. To respond to Megan's question, there really wasn't much choice about putting inexperienced men into the field. The army was very tiny and spread out mostly in the West to fight against Native Americans. Not to mention a large number of officers went South. The navy only had a handful of ships available that weren't overseas. So that begs the question, who's left to fight?? Thus inexperienced, raw recruits were needed for the field armies and the fleets. A lot of the officers had to learn as they went along. As MacPherson wrote, West Point taught a lot about engineering & fortifications but little about the actual practicalities of commanding troops in the field. Others were political appointees so that the leaders on both sides could make their constituents happy.

Megan Reilly

Two things.
First: How would you answer the midterm question over the Northup book? I did read it but the question itself throws me.
Second: Why on earth did the leaders of the two warring factions think that men with no previous experience could lead an army to victory? It seems like everyone thought that this was a fun diversion from normal life and that anyone could lead without the slightests concept of war and tactics.

Sept 17-21: War & Watkins