Subject

Georgia -- History -- Civil War, 1861-1865 -- Personal narratives Books

Best books

Walter A. (Walter Augustus) Clark

Under the Stars and Bars : $b or, Memories of four years service with the Oglethorpes, of Augusta, Georgia

"Under the Stars and Bars" by Walter A. Clark is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book recounts the personal memories and experiences of the author during his four years of service with the Oglethorpe Infantry of Augusta, Georgia, in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. It aims to provide both a faithful portrait of soldier life and a countering perspective to the negative views held about the Old South's contributions during the war. The opening of the book sets the stage for Clark's reflections, beginning with a preface that acknowledges his comrades and describes his motivations for writing. He emphasizes the complex nature of war, highlighting its humor and camaraderie alongside its realities. Through his detailed accounts, the beginning introduces readers to the origins of the Oglethorpes, their eagerness to join the war effort, and the early experiences Clark faced as a new recruit. Key moments are shared, such as hearing the news of secession and embarking on the first march, illustrating a blend of youthful enthusiasm and the challenges of military life amidst the turmoil of the conflict. These themes create a rich canvas for understanding the historical context and personal narratives interwoven throughout the text.

Dolly Sumner Lunt

A Woman's Wartime Journal
 An account of the passage over a Georgia plantation of Sherman's army on the march to the sea, as recorded in the diary of Dolly Sumner Lunt

"A Woman's Wartime Journal" by Dolly Sumner Lunt is a historical account written in the early 20th century, specifically during the 1910s. This book presents a firsthand narrative of life on a Georgia plantation during the Civil War, detailing the experiences of a Southern woman as she witnesses Sherman's army march through her home in 1864. The journal captures her thoughts on war, slavery, and personal loss, offering readers a vivid portrayal of the impact of conflict on daily life. In her diary, Dolly Sumner Lunt chronicles pivotal events from her perspective as the war encroaches upon her plantation. She documents her fears and struggles to protect her family's possessions, the disruption caused by Union troops, and the emotional turmoil she faces as her dependents, both human and animal, are taken away or harmed. Throughout the entries, Lunt reflects on the trials of wartime, including the high prices of goods, the suffering of her slaves, and her conflicted views on slavery. The journal not only serves as a personal record of her family's challenges but also provides insight into the broader context of the Civil War and the changing societal landscape.

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