Civil War Glossary III

Question 1

Hardtack

Answer 1

A quarter-inch or half-inch thick hard cracker eaten by Civil War soldiers. Also known as biscuits, crackers, and army bread.

Question 2

Haversack

Answer 2

Cloth bag used by soldiers to carry rations and food.

Question 3

Infantry

Answer 3

Foot soldiers marching and fighting together. The vast majority of Civil War soldiers were infantry.

Question 4

Ironclad

Answer 4

A ship covered with iron plates that was used in the Civil War, in the famous Marrimac vs Monitor first ever naval battles between the ironclads in 1862. They revolutionized naval warfare.

Question 5

Main Attack

Answer 5

The big, concentrated attack against the enemy’s week or critical point.

Question 6

Minie ball

Answer 6

The standard rifle bullet used in the war. From France, it made the rifle more accurate and led to staggering casualties.

Question 7

Picket

Answer 7

One or more soldiers responsible for guard duty always watchful for enemy approach.

Question 8

Rank

Answer 8

Military leader ship in order of importance and decision making responsibilities usually prioritized from the Commander-in-Chief (president), General of the army, Lt. General, Major General, Brigadier General, Colonel, Major, Captain, Lieutenant, 1st Sergeant, Corporal, Private.

Question 9

Rations

Answer 9

Military term for food.

Question 10

Rebel or Confederate, Butternut, Grayback, Jonny Reb, or Reb:

Answer 10

A slang term for a soldier fighting for the South.