History of North America

What happened to union soldiers after the civil war?

Some Union soldiers returned to their homes and civilian lives. This was possible for those who had not suffered too many injuries or who at least had access to medical care that allowed them to recover.

Others were treated for injuries sustained during the war. There were many hospitals specifically for Civil War veterans.

Some soldiers also remained in the military after the war. The regular Army was vastly expanded during the war and this continued as the Army faced Reconstruction as well as conflicts with Native American tribes.

Some soldiers took advantage of the Homestead Act of 1862, which granted public lands to settlers. Union veterans were given preferential access for public lands.

Some soldiers struggled to adjust to civilian life after the war. They might have had trouble finding jobs or dealing with the memory of the war.