Music During The Civil War

Music: A Civil War Commonality Music can have lasting impacts on life, especially during times of war, and the Civil War era was no exception. Music had been affecting the way people thought and voiced their opinions on many things, including slavery and states rights (two of many issues causing tension from the ratification of the Constitution in 1788 to the Civil War in 1861). Music was present in battles, from drummer boys helping issue commands to the generals’ training troops. It was also evident in civilian life, where it helped people deal with loneliness and worry, fear and dread. Finally, it was present in psychological influence: the way people internalized news of the outcomes of battles and felt about the different causes. Music

Grant said of the Civil War, “The art of war is simple enough. Find out where your enemy is. Get at him as soon as you can. Strike him as hard as you can, and keep moving on” (Ulysses S. Grant Quotes, American Civil War Story). He was referring to battles, of which music played a major part. In camps, music helped to train untrained troops, relieved everyday stresses and anxieties, and helped soldiers endure hardships (“Civil War Culture,” History.com). Songs played and sung assisted in passing the time, as well as entertained, comforted, strengthened bonds (and camaraderie), and brought back fond memories of home and family. The rhythm provided by the drummer boy helped troops identify orders and regiment numbers (1). In actual battles, songs such as John Brown’s Body in the Union and Dixie(s Land) in the Confederacy helped troops fall in line during retreats or marches. It was also said that “a regiment’s drums were second only to its colors as an emblem of honor and tradition,” and, “the act of enlisting was described as ‘following the drum...’” (historynet.com). Music had a major effect on the outcomes of Civil War

At home, people would sing together at outdoor meetings and rallies, while musical soirees raised money for troops. Songs would be written to voice opinions (H-Net Reviews: “Battle Hymns”) and to organize these opinions and thoughts. Music provided entertainment and relaxation to families with soldiers in the war, and connected families to their children, parents, siblings and the cause they were fighting for (NPS- “The Civilian Experience in the Civil War). Specially written music was performed and sung for entertainment during strenuous times and to welcome troops home. This music also helped families support/sustain life without their siblings (Library of Congress). Finally, this music was written to establish a cause and allowed for the gathering of information. After tedious and bloody battles, like Antietam or Gettysburg, somber tunes helped families who were mourning the loss of a family member turn to a positive outlook on the future (3). In these instances, music provided a major contribution to civilian experiences during the American Civil