The Civil War is considered to be one of the most devastating events in American history. The war not only tore the nation in two, but divided families. Brothers, sons, fathers, and uncles fought against each other during Civil War battles in the bloodiest four years in America’s history.
The US Civil War - Advantages in the North and South
Storyboard Text
LARGE POPULATION
NORTH
FIGHTING FOR A CAUSE
SOUTH
Industry in the North attracted a large working class. The large population caused the North to have four times as many soldiers than the South. A larger population also meant that the North was better able to produce food to send to the troops.
MORE MONEY
Southerners were fighting to keep their new nation independent from the Union and to maintain the institution of slavery.
EXCELLENT GENERALS
Lincoln had much more money at his disposal to fund the war. He was able to raise funds by selling war bonds to the American people.
FACTORIES AND RAILROADS
The best trained generals could be found in the South. One of the best known generals of all time, the legendary Robert E. Lee fought valiantly for the Confederacy. Several times during the war, the North faltered due to poor leadership.
DEFENSIVE WAR
Factories could make guns and weapons rapidly for Union troops. The network of railroads meant that these vital goods could be transported quickly to the front, resupplying troops.
By fighting a defensive war, the south only has to win enough battles to destroy the morale of Northern troops. Southerners hoped that Northerners would quickly tire of fighting, lose popular support, and bring an end to war.