The Story the Soldiers Wouldn't Tell: Sex in the Civil War

Hardcover
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Author: Thomas P. Lowry

ISBN-10: 0811715159

ISBN-13: 9780811715157

Category: United States History - 19th Century - Civil War

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First-ever book to cover all aspects of sexuality during the Civil War Based on rare original sources, including the soldiers' jokes, songs, letters, and diaries. Introduction by Robert K. Krick. Library Journal Using primary documents as well as standard historical works (e.g., Douglas Southall Freeman's biographies of Civil War leaders), Lowry, a physician and medical historian, weaves a fascinating history of a little-discussed aspect (sex) of a much-discussed subject (the Civil War). Beginning with the icons of the war, Lowry notes that the reputation of such saintlike figures as Lincoln, Lee, and Stonewall Jackson is well deserved. However, the rank and file present quite another story, and Lowry tells it in an easy, armchair-style prose that is well documented with letters, diaries, court records, and other primary evidence. From camp followers to gay lovers to vulgar language, Lowry examines Civil War-era sex from every conceivable angle. Recommended for public libraries and as ancillary reading in academic libraries where Civil War materials are collected.-William Emory Buchanan, Clarion Univ., Pa.