Description
Book SynopsisIt has been over sixty years since the first book that tried to explain the life and lot of the common soldier in the American Civil War was published. Since Bell Wiley''s Life of Johnny Reb (1943), there have been many thousands of pages devoted to the troops and the social history underlying the conflict of the Civil War. Within that historical record, one question still captivates and provokes: why did they fight? John E. Mattoon was certainly one such common soldier, aside from his uncommonly interesting and expressive letters. This book constitutes a valuable case study illuminating the motives, experiences, and ultimate realizations of a young cavalry volunteer. The exploration of John''s personal motivations and the actions of his peers adds further clarity to our body of knowledge, which may force us to reassess some preconceived notions about the prototypical Union soldier. Scholarly research adds historical context to provide colorful depth and flesh to a developing interpretation of John''s experiences. A refreshing approach to an old conflict-students, teachers, and anyone interested in the personal side of war will benefit from the firsthand glimpse of Manhood and Patriotic Awakening.
Table of ContentsPart 1 Preface Part 2 Family Members in the John E. Mattoon Letters Chapter 3 Early Life Chapter 4 Family Chapter 5 Back in Canaan, NY Chapter 6 Recruiting the Second Wave Chapter 7 Why Fight? Chapter 8 In the Army Chapter 9 New Market and Early's Washington Raid Chapter 10 Remount Camp Again Chapter 11 The Hard Men Chapter 12 An Awakening Chapter 13 Politics Chapter 14 The Moral Aspect Chapter 15 Back to War Chapter 16 Washington and Home? Chapter 17 The State of the Post-War Union Chapter 18 Happenings out West Chapter 19 Desertion or Duty - Back in Washington Chapter 20 The 21st at War's End Chapter 21 On the Road Chapter 22 Tibbits' Waterloo Chapter 23 Fort Collins Chapter 24 Spring, 1866 Chapter 25 Home Again Chapter 26 From Reluctant Farmer to Patriot Part 27 Bibliography Chapter 28 Index
