Raising an Army
What were the struggles for the Union when raising an army for the Civil War
Sample Solution
1. Limited Initial Manpower: Despite the larger population, the Union initially struggled to mobilize a sufficient number of troops. Many men in the North were reluctant to fight a war against their fellow Americans.
2. Secessionist Sentiment: There was significant secessionist sentiment within the Union, particularly in the border states.
This made it difficult to recruit soldiers from these areas and raised concerns about loyalty
Full Answer Section
- Draft Resistance: The Union eventually implemented a draft system to meet its manpower needs, but this led to widespread resistance and protests, particularly in rural areas.
- Lack of Military Experience: Many Union soldiers were volunteers with little or no military experience.
- Logistical Difficulties: The Union faced logistical challenges in supplying and supporting its large army. This included transportation of troops and supplies, as well as maintaining adequate food, ammunition, and medical supplies.
- Political Divisions: Political divisions within the Union government and among the general public hampered the war effort. These divisions made it difficult to mobilize public support and maintain a united front.