Civil War Glossary 4

Question 1

Recruit

Answer 1

A soldier who has just signed up to be a soldier and is without battle experience.

Question 2

Rifled musket

Answer 2

The standard infantry weapon used in the war. Usually 58 or 577 caliber, the “rifle” fired Minnie ball through a spiral grooved barrel, spinning the bullet for more velocity and accuracy.

Question 3

Salt Pork

Answer 3

The most common meal ration during the war, along with hardtack and coffee. The pork was salted to preserve it.

Question 4

Secede

Answer 4

To withdraw from the Union, as 11 Southern sates did in 1860-1861. During the war, southerners were frequently called “secesh” by northerners.

Question 5

Stragety

Answer 5

The art of military command as to an overall plan of war. How to deploy troops are components of strategic planning.

Question 6

Sutler

Answer 6

Dry goods salesmen who traveled with Northern armies. Considered necessary for the provision of extra items for the soldiers, sutlers often cheater and overcharge military customers.

Question 7

Tactics

Answer 7

The art of maneuvering troops on a battlefield.

Question 8

Torpedo

Answer 8

Civil war term for an underwater mine that exploded. Used on rivers to defend against enemy ships.

Question 9

Turning Movement

Answer 9

A military tactic. Sending troops around the enemy’s flank (side) to attack his line of communications in the rear of his battle line.

Question 10

Union

Answer 10

The collection of 23 northern states which fought the rebellious Confederacy during the Civil War. Also called The United Sates Of America.

Question 11

Yank or The Blue, Federals, or Billy Yank

Answer 11

Term for soldier who fought for the Union

Question 12

Zoave

Answer 12

Soldiers in colorful uniforms patterned after French infantry soldiers, and who specialized in precision drilling