Civil War Enthusiasts

It has been documented by historians that neither side was prepared militarily to go to war in 1861. For certain, both sides were definitely ill-prepared to manage the extensive injuries of the combatants created by the conflict. As the Union had not been involved in a major war in twelve years, the Mexican War, there was a paucity of hospitals to care for the wounded and also a general lack of surgeons’ experience in the management of war injuries. The Confederacy was faced with creating a Medical Corps from “ground zero.” Generals, like commanders in previous wars, were not particularly interested in diverting supplies, personnel, and resources to the care of the wounded as their reputation, professional careers, and places in history depended on winning battles, not tending to the wounded.

In spite of these obstacles, there were significant medical advancements accomplished during the war. The medical benefits derived from the war have not received significant attention. For one to have a complete understanding of the Civil War and it’s significance in history, it is important to understand the medical aspect.

My presentation takes approximately one hour. At the end there is time allotted for questions and answers. I have an authentic Confederate surgical kit for display that a physician from Wytheville, Virginia used during the war.