Differences in the Handling of Confederate and Union Soldiers' Remains During and After the Civil War
The American Civil War (1861-1865) saw significant differences in how the remains of Confederate and Union soldiers were handled. These differences stemmed from various factors, including political climate, cultural attitudes, and available resources. This essay explores these distinctions and their enduring impact on Civil War memory and heritage.
Initial Burials
Union Soldiers: Union soldiers were typically buried in organized cemeteries often established by the United States Army. These cemeteries provided proper markers and maintenance, ensuring that their final resting places were respected and properly cared for. After the conflict, the federal government continued this practice by establishing national cemeteries for Union soldiers, ensuring they were commemorated with honor and dignity.
Confederate Soldiers: The situation for Confederate soldiers was quite different. Confederate soldiers were frequently laid to rest in unmarked graves or less formal burial sites, particularly in the early years of the war. These graves often lacked proper markers, making it difficult to remember and identify the fallen soldiers. Unlike Union soldiers, Confederate remains were often interred in local cemeteries or designated Confederate cemeteries, which did not always receive the same level of care and funding.
Cemeteries and Post-War Treatment
Reburial Efforts: Post-war efforts to identify and rebury Union soldiers in national cemeteries were thorough and systematic. These efforts aimed to ensure that Union soldiers were honored and provided with proper final resting places. In contrast, while some Confederate remains were also relocated, these efforts were often less systematic. Many Confederate graves remained unmarked or were not moved to designated cemeteries.
Memorialization: The memorialization of Union soldiers was strongly supported by the federal government. Monuments and memorials were established in their honor, reflecting the national emphasis on honoring these fallen heroes. Confederate memorials, however, were often erected by local communities and organizations, reflecting a different cultural and political context. These memorials frequently underscored the Southern perspective on the war and its legacy.
Historical Context and Impact
The differences in the treatment of the remains can be attributed to several factors. The political climate of Reconstruction, differing attitudes toward the war, and the resources available for the care and memorialization of the dead all played significant roles. The legacy of these practices continues to influence discussions about Civil War memory and heritage in the United States today. For instance, the US Army Arsenal at Rock Island, a site that now contains the remains of Confederate soldiers who died in Union POW camps, continues to serve as a reminder of this historical context.
It is worth noting that the opposite occurred in some contexts. For example, the Confederate commander of the Andersonville POW camp was hung after the war for his war crimes. This stark contrast highlights the complex and often contradictory nature of Civil War memory and the impact of political decisions on the treatment of fallen soldiers' remains.