The Language of the Civil War

Subjects:

• Anthropology » Linguistics
• History » American Civil War & Reconstruction History

Reviews:

• Wright, a reporter for Time's London bureau, has successfully compiled a dictionary that reflects how civilians and soldiers on both sides of the American Civil War spoke and wrote. ...this volume should appeal to those interested in the lighter side of history and would easily fit into public and academic libraries.
  —Library Journal October 15, 2002
• For a long time, there has been a wide choice of books about the American Civil War for a popular audience, but what about scholars? Wright offers a reference that should delight both...Highly recommended for academic or special libraries supporting programs in Civil War and language studies and American social history; essential for libraries located near major Civil War sites.
  —Choice October 2002
• This excellent reference book can be purchased for the high school collection and, because of its timeless nature, kept indefinitely. It will prove invaluable for the student or teacher reading Civil War related material and books. Recommended.
  —The Book Report Nov/Dec 2002
• This volume opens up life in the 1860s for casual readers, historians, students, and Civil War enthusiasts....This fascinating look at language provides a treasure trove of not just words but anecdotes, history, trivia, and lifestyles of the Civil War. It is recommended for all public and academic libraries.
  —Booklist/RBB September 1, 2002
• Wright has taken considerable effort to include language describing the everday activities of soldiers, weapons, fortifications, food, drink, and clothing...The portrait of the Civil War soldier that emerges displays the considerable wit and humor with which he often faced desperate situations...provide a solid introduction to the common expressions of Civil War soldiers.
  —Gale Reference-Lawrence Looks at Books August 2002
• The Language Of The Civil War compiled by journalist John D. Wright is an impressive reference (accessibly organized in the style of a dictionary) of slang, nicknames, military jargon, idioms, colloquialisms, and other words that originated in or were commonly used during era the American Civil War. Meticulous in its comprehensive attention to detail, The Language Of The Civil War is an essential addition to Civil War reference collections, and sheds considerable linguistic comprehension and background on the language and terminology endemic to virtually all primary sources and first-person accounts of America's bloodiest war. In addition to being invaluable for academia in general and Civil War buffs in particular, The Language Of The Civil War is also an ideal resource for writers of historical fiction set in the Civil War era and seeking authenticity and realism in their work.
  —MBR: Internet Bookwatch May 2002
• Attractively written and well researched...The physical production is excellent, and the book is well indexed....a fascinating book.
  —Reference Reviews March 2002
• This new work will be a welcome addition to the literature of the Civil War by scholars, students, and history buffs....an excellent book offered at a reasonable price. It should be considered for inclusion in any library that has an interest in the Civil War, as well as by interested readers in the general public.
  —American Reference Books Annual 2002

Table of Contents:

• Preface
• Guide to Related Topics
• Language of the Civil War
• Bibliography
• Index