The Civil War and Civil War Collectibles
The Civil War still has a fascination for a large number of Americans, largely due to the conflict not only being the largest to take place on American soil, but also the only one that pitched cousin against cousin, and in some cases brother against brother.The popularity of Civil War collectibles is just one indication of this fascination for a very unique and significant part of American history. This one conflict caused more deaths per head of population than any country suffered during World War I, although the vast majority of deaths, estimated at more than one third, were due to disease.
Disease was not yet understood at that point it history, and little knowledge was available on what caused it or how to prevent or control it. The most common diseases were typhoid, pneumonia, dysentery and tuberculosis, though other highly infectious diseases were also rampant. This was due to people, especially young men who had been isolated from large communities, coming into contact with so many others. Diseases such as measles, mumps and chickenpox were common, and these were not so much the direct cause of fatalities, but weakened those who contracted them and reduced their ability to fight.
The aftermath of the Civil War was significant, not only with respect to freedom from slavery, but also in its economic significance to the Southern states. Destruction was widespread, and the loss of so much of the youth of a relatively small area had profound effects on its ability to recover. The social consequences of the freedom of slaves were also significant, and it is little wonder that this relatively modern period in American history fascinates so many.
The fact is, that America does not have a long history, and an event of the importance of the Civil war is bound to be considered of consequence to many people. This is exemplified in the reenactment of the battles of the war, not only in the USA and Canada, but also in Britain and other European countries. Those who are involved in these replays of most of the great battles also have a demand for Civil War collectibles and replicas of all kinds.
One of the reasons for the relatively large loss of life over a fairly short period time is the disparity between improvements in weaponry and the old fashioned battle tactics used. During this period, and just prior to it, weapons improved immensely in effectiveness. Rifling was applied to canons and small arms, improving distance and accuracy. The rifled musket was common, but the breach loading rifle and carbine also came onto the scene, speeding up the frequency with which the weapons could be reloaded and fired.
The first real repeating guns became freely available, and the so called 'machine guns, or rapid fire guns were first used in battle. They were not used as much as they might have been, however, since the Union was reluctant to employ these new weapons for some reason. In spite of the new weaponry, the tactics were still those of the Napoleonic era and before. Masses of troops on either side faced and charged each other, and were easy targets for the accurate weapons being used.
It is these new weapons that are the target for the collectors. Sabers, hand guns, muskets rifles and carbines are all in demand, and when that demand is unable to be met by the dwindling number of items that are not in museums, it is fulfilled by replicas that are indistinguishable from the originals.
Personal items such as belts, buckles, watches and the like, are also popular, though it is the weapons that most collectors look for. Those involved in reenactments have different priorities to collectors, since their first objective is to be as authentic as possible with respect to all aspects of uniform and accessories. Union and Confederate uniforms are much sought after and the accoutrements such as eating utensils, flasks and canteens, and hats, caps and badges are popular, especially with the enactors.
The Civil War is a popular time in American history, and Civil War collectibles are in demand. Although some lucky collectors occasionally come across the genuine article that was actually used in battle, they are now largely replicas, though very faithful to the original. - www.HistoricalWeaponsStore.com -
About the Author
I am a History Buff - and proud of it!
Visit http://historicalweaponsstore.com/civil-war-replicas-reenactment-collectibles.html for quality civil war replicas, including weapons, uniforms and accessories. Also see the listing of reenactment events across the US.
