Antietam+Union+Soldiers

​ The Usual Union Soldier: Were usually in their early 20's. Most were farmers who thought the war would be over in a few months. Others were drafted during the peak of the war when more soldiers were needed. They became in need of soldiers so even women dressed up as men and snuck their way in. The Uniforms were dark blue and made from thick wool which got very hot. Because they were so hot, sometimes their familes would send them cotton shirts to cool them. They also had wool hats to shade themselves from the sun when shooting. They even had better wepons. They used enfield rifels which were they most accurate wepons to use.In addition to heavy clothes, Union soldiers carried a heavy knapsack, a blanket, and a small protective cover called "dog tent". Like the Confederates, Union soldiers carried a haversack filled with the usual set of eating implements, the canteen and frying pan being the most important. Unlike the southern Rebels, the Union soldiers were required to groom themselves, and maintain a proper appearance, therefore their kit also included a comb, a razor, and other personal hygiene products. While the Union troops were well fed, many died from ptomaine poisoning, the result of eating poorly canned meat and other tainted food items. Morale was generally high amongst the Federal troops, but desertion was a serious issue since many soldiers which had left their homes in the hopes of fighting a short war, would eventually feel the need to return to their families and farms. Since many of them had been drafted, they did not want to be where they were in the first place. Those who deserted for cowardice were mostly drummed out of camp with a sign around their neck that read "coward", while others hung or executed by firing squad for more serious offences such as treason.

Killed: 2,100 Men Wounded: 9,550 Men MIA/ Missing in Action: Men Total: 12,400 Men **
 * Union Soldier Satistics: