Disease was the leading cause of death for soldiers during the Civil War. More soldiers died from disease than from combat injuries. The most common diseases were typhoid fever, dysentery, and pneumonia. These diseases were spread through contaminated food and water, and they were often fatal.
2. Poor Sanitation
Sanitation was very poor during the Civil War. Soldiers often lived in crowded camps with inadequate food and water. This led to the spread of disease and infection.
3. Lack of Medical Care
There was a shortage of doctors and medical supplies during the Civil War. This meant that many soldiers who were wounded or sick did not receive the care they needed.
4. Amputations
Amputations were a common treatment for gunshot wounds during the Civil War. Thousands of soldiers lost limbs due to amputations.
5. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD was not recognized as a medical condition until after the Civil War. However, it is clear that many soldiers suffered from PTSD after the war. Symptoms of PTSD included flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and depression.
6. Physical Disabilities
Many soldiers who survived the Civil War were left with physical disabilities. These disabilities could make it difficult for them to work or to reintegrate into society after the war.
7. Death
The Civil War was a very bloody war. Over 620,000 soldiers were killed during the war. This number is more than the number of Americans who were killed in all other wars combined.