Written by: Mark Lloyd
Submitted By: Robert Douglas
Most war films depict American Civil War troops wearing kepi caps and garbed in either Union blue or Confederate grey. In truth, however, there were a variety of uniforms portrayed during this conflict. Most states involved often introduced their own style, although over time most of these gradually changed due to practicality or simple lack of supplies and resources - the Confederate Butternut is a result of the latter. Some regiments were even influenced by external connections: 79th New York (Highlanders), The Irish Brigade, Louisiana Tigers (culturally French), even the 39th New York (Garibaldi Guard). The Zouaves are perhaps one of the regiments most famous for their outlandish Moroccan-style dress. The Confederacy boasted some of the finest horsemen such as Hood's Texas Brigade, Stuart's Cavalry Corps, and Virginia Cavalry. The U.S Sharpshooters were perhaps one of the first to adopt camouflaged uniforms (similar to the 95th Rifles of Napoleonic Britain), field craft techniques combined with deadly accuracy. These, and many more fascinating regimental details, are richly described throughout this book by author Mark Lloyd. All are supplemented by historical backgrounds, the battles which they fought, the officers responsible for leading them, the generals, contemporary photographs, and each superbly illustrated by colour sketch artist Michael Codd. This book is an essential guide for those wishing to know more about the various regiments which took part in one of the bloodiest conflicts on American soil.
