Southerners and the American Civil War: Reflections and Adjustments After Defeat

The American Civil War, a defining conflict in American history, left deep scars and profound reflections among its Southern participants. This complex period saw not just soldiers in the field but civilians, including prominent figures, grapple with the aftermath of defeat for the Confederate States of America. This essay explores the perspectives of Southern individuals, particularly those who fought for the Confederacy, and their varying levels of regret and subsequent adjustments.

The Cost and Impact of War on Individuals

The Civil War proved to be a grim affair, with numerous casualties and long-term repercussions. While some soldiers may have found their deaths honorable and glorious, a considerable portion likely faced the reality of war with a sense of regret. The war was not only a physical battle but also an emotional one, impacting every aspect of life, from economic stability to the very way people perceived their roles in society.

For many, the loss of this honor was further exacerbated by the health crises that plagued soldiers. Diseases and injuries often led to a continued and chronic struggle, reducing their ability to return to normal life or farms, which were crucial for economic stability post-war. Additionally, conscription and recruitment policies aimed at ensuring a steady supply of soldiers often meant that plantation owners had fewer hands to manage their estates, leading to a further strain on the Southern economy and social structure.

Changing of Hearts and Minds

Despite the hardships and disillusionment, not all southerners remained staunch defenders of the Confederate cause. Prominent figures like General James Longstreet and John S. Mosby embraced a more pragmatic, forward-looking perspective. After the war, Longstreet, once skeptical of the Union, supported Union General Ulysses S. Grant's presidential campaign and later became a respected Republican leader. His transformation from Confederate general to championing biracial integration in the Louisiana State Militia marked a significant shift from his earlier views. The story of Longstreet highlights the complex and nuanced nature of Southern political and social adjustments in the post-war period.

Mosby, a former cavalry leader, initially opposed secession but later became a fervent advocate for Southern reconciliation with the North. Even when the political climate was charged with animosity, Mosby maintained a practical and diplomatic stance. His efforts to secure rights for former Confederates and his subsequent conversion to the Republican Party exemplify a willingness to move past divisions for the sake of progress. This reflects a broader trend among some Southerners who recognized the necessity of unity and economic viability in the post-war South.

Reflection and Reconstruction

Mosby's rejection of Lost Cause arguments and his defense of Robert E. Lee's actions, even in matters related to the defeat at Gettysburg, indicate a shift from traditional Confederate narratives to a more realistic understanding of the past. The contents of Lee's letterbook, which paint a picture of Lee's perspective and decision-making, appear to align with Mosby's view of Lee as a seasoned commander making informed decisions. Despite personal contradictions, such as Mosby owning a slave during the conflict, his stance on the role of slavery in the war was firm. In 1894, he firmly stated that 'slavery was not incidental to the war,' underscoring the ideological and social dimensions of the conflict.

The adjustments made by figures like Longstreet and Mosby reflect a broader movement towards reconciliation, economic recovery, and social change. Their experiences and perspectives highlight the ongoing struggle of Southerners to redefine their identity and find a place in a newly unified nation. While regret may have been felt, the path towards healing and progress often required hard work, compromise, and a willingness to embrace change.