20% increase to civil war death toll

In summary, this study suggests that the death toll from the US Civil War may be way under the mark, with at least 6 of 8 great-great-grandfathers serving in the conflict. The Civil War was a very bloody and messy conflict, with low-ranking soldiers often facing deadly grape-shot and bar-shot.
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  • #2
At least 6 of my 8 great-great-grandfathers served in the civil war- but only one died in the war (my great-great-grandfathers were all born before the civil war started).
 
  • #3
2 of my G4 fathers were in the Civil War. 1 was in the 7th Iowa and fought and was wounded at Pea Ridge. He had wrist and shoulder wounds, sounds like he was standing and holding a weapon to his shoulder when hit.

The other, well it is history now, was in Chivington's 3rd Colorado Calvary. They are noted only for the Sand Creek Massacre. Karma rules, he was murdered in Texas in 1873.
 
  • #4
This increase might be far too low. There were lots of soldiers that were picked up in local recruiting efforts, for instance, with poor documentation. Low-ranking soldiers were often cannon-fodder back when battles were fought on open fields with ranked artillery. It was common for them to have to face grape-shot, and even chain-shot and bar-shot (more commonly used against naval ships). The CW was very messy and bloody.

I have a historian friend whose on-line name is related to this type of warfare and who has written numerous books on this subject. We can't dismiss the viciousness of the tactics used in the CW and say "that was in the past" because the use of such destructive shot was pervasive.

Please be advised that "buck and ball" was an acceptable load to use in CW muskets. Such a load was made up of a paper-wrapped cartridge using large musket balls (buck) along with smaller shot (balls). The intent was to cause as many wounds as possible, even if you didn't kill the enemy. If you could wound as many as possible and cause infections, you could tie up the enemy's support-systems. Our youngsters don't ever learn this stuff in their sanitized history studies. It's a shame, because perhaps we could drop support for some of the support for warring factions around the world. Things haven't changed much in 150 years...
 
  • #5
the journal Civil War History and used statistical analysis to estimate that the actual death toll of the US Civil War may be 20% higher than previously thought.

I find this study to be a valuable contribution to our understanding of the US Civil War. It highlights the importance of using rigorous methods and data analysis to re-evaluate historical events and their impact on society. The fact that the estimated death toll may be 20% higher than previously thought raises important questions about the accuracy of historical records and the need for further research in this area.

The lack of modern record-keeping and DNA identification during the Civil War era makes it challenging to accurately determine the number of casualties. However, this study offers a new perspective and suggests that the death toll may have been significantly underestimated. It also emphasizes the need for continued efforts to accurately document and preserve historical events for future generations.

Furthermore, this study highlights the devastating impact of war on human life and serves as a reminder of the importance of promoting peace and resolving conflicts through peaceful means. As scientists, it is our responsibility to use evidence-based research to inform and educate society about the consequences of war and the value of human life.

In conclusion, this study serves as a valuable reminder of the importance of using scientific methods to study historical events and challenges us to critically examine and re-evaluate our understanding of the past. It also emphasizes the need for continued efforts to accurately document and preserve historical events for future generations.
 

What is a "20% increase to civil war death toll"?

A "20% increase to civil war death toll" refers to a statistical measurement of the number of deaths resulting from a civil war. It means that the current death toll has increased by 20% compared to a previous measurement or estimate.

How is the "20% increase to civil war death toll" calculated?

The "20% increase to civil war death toll" is calculated by taking the difference between the current death toll and the previous measurement or estimate, dividing it by the previous measurement, and then multiplying by 100 to get the percentage increase.

Why is the "20% increase to civil war death toll" significant?

The "20% increase to civil war death toll" is significant because it indicates a significant increase in the number of deaths resulting from a civil war. This can be a reflection of the intensity and severity of the conflict, and can also have implications for humanitarian aid and international intervention.

What factors can contribute to a "20% increase to civil war death toll"?

There are several factors that can contribute to a "20% increase to civil war death toll", including an escalation of violence and conflict, inadequate access to medical care and resources, and displacement of civilians. Other factors such as political instability, economic conditions, and access to weapons can also play a role.

How accurate are measurements of the "20% increase to civil war death toll"?

Measurements of the "20% increase to civil war death toll" can vary in accuracy depending on the availability and reliability of data. In conflict zones, it can be difficult to accurately track and report the number of deaths. Additionally, different organizations may have different methods and criteria for counting deaths, leading to discrepancies in measurements. Therefore, it is important to consider the source and methodology when interpreting these measurements.

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