Today the complicated dynamics of African slavery are on vivid display when, three days prior to U.S. President Abraham Lincoln‘s much-anticipated Emancipation Proclamation, Confederate General Robert E. Lee, now devoted to defending human bondage in the Confederacy, is forced by law to free some 200 slaves previously-owned by his wife’s (Mary Anna Custis) father, George…
Not all military activity ceases during these holidays. In northern Virginia today and the days following, the Frying Baptist Church, located near the Maryland state line in an area that is a hotbed of activity during the war years, finds itself in the midst of skirmishes. John S. Moseby, Confederate cavalry scout for General J.E.B.…
In the winter months, and especially during the holiday season, soldiers often have much time on their hands. While not all military movements are suspended, many regiments in colder climates are hunkered down, living in tents and braving the elements as best they can. Reading is a popular pastime now in the Confederate camps, and…