Union Soldiers From Company D, 13th Vermont Vol Infantry Regiment in 1862
The letters of ordinary Civil War soldiers reveal a great deal to historians trying to understand why people were willing to risk their lives fighting in a war. These letters oftentimes present vastly different viewpoints than those stated in official speeches made by politicians about why a country goes to war.
"The battle has been raging all day in the distance and I am unable to ascertain whether any thing has been gained or not. O how I long for this war to end. How I long for peace. How will I hail the day when I return to the bosom of my family. My Dear I hope to see you." (Samuel D. Lougheed letter to his wife Jane "Jennie" Lougheed, April 30 - May 1 1863)
“Tis hard to see the mighty prancing war horse, trampling the dying and dead beneath their merciless feet. No dear wife, near to speak a word of comfort. No living sister or Mother to administer relief in that hour the most sad in the history of humanity. O the humanity. O the horrors of war. Truly it may be considered the most cruel and awful scourge which can befall a nation. Heaven grant there may be an end soon.” (Samuel D. Lougheed letter to his wife Jane "Jennie" Lougheed, October 7, 1862)
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