U.S. History: Civil War- Civil War Woman and Relief Work
During the Civil War, thousands of women worked to relieve the suffering of soldiers, refugees, and former slaves. While some of these women ministered to the sick and dying as nurses, most contributed from the home front. Both North and South, women made clothing, food, and bandages and sent these to the battle front. Women also held fundraisers such as sanitary fairs to provide additional supplies. Women accomplished these goals both by working individually and by forming groups such as soldiers’ aid societies. Women continued their relief efforts after the war by working to assist veterans. In this lesson, students will analyze broadsides, letters, posters, and prints that solicited and advertised relief work by women. Students will evaluate the role that women played in relieving wartime suffering