Civil War Quotes

If the American Civil War wreaked havoc upon the very fabric of American life, both North and South, at the same time, it inspired many, both directly involved in the war and affected from the civilian perspective, to contemplation of the war and what it meant for everyone in the country.

Below are some snippets or quotes from writings or conversation from those who experienced the Civil War. Some are poignant, some are angry, and some are witty. All are worth reading.

If the Confederacy falls, there should be written on its tombstone: Died of a Theory. – Jefferson Davis

If I killed them all [newspapermen] there would be news from Hell before breakfast. I think I understand what military fame is; to be killed on the field of battle and have your name misspelled in the newspapers. – William Tecumseh Sherman

Gen. Grant habitually wears an expression as if he had determined to drive his head through a brick wall and was about to do it. – a Union soldier

It is well that war is so terrible, or we should grow too fond of it. -Robert E. Lee, after the Battle of Fredericksburg

I always thought the Yankees had something to do with it. – George Pickett, upon being asked why he thought the Confederates lost at Gettysburg.

I reckon so, General, I’ve been with you this whole campaign. -Private, upon being asked by Braxton Bragg if he knew what a retreat looked like.

I have stood your meanness as long as I intend to. You have played the part of a damn scoundrel, and if you were any part of a man I would slap your jaws and force you to resent it… – Nathan B. Forrest to Braxton Bragg

A tyrannical, hot-headed vulgarian. – A subordinate, describing Nathan Bedford Forrest

Hello, Massa; bottom rail on top dis time. - A black Union soldier to a Confederate prisoner he recognized – his former master

My religious belief teaches me to feel as safe in battle as in bed. God has fixed the time for my death. I do not concern myself about that, but to always be ready, no matter when it may overtake me. – Stonewall Jackson

A house divided against itself cannot stand. I believe this government cannot endure permanently half slave and half free. – Abraham Lincoln

The enemy is here, and if we do not whip him, he will whip us.
- Robert E. Lee, announcing his plans to attack the Union army at Gettysburg, July 1, 1863

They couldn’t hit an elephant at this distance. – Union General John Sedgwick, just moments before being shot dead by a confederate sniper at Spotsylvania

The men continue their drunkenness & gambling almost without reproof…- Lt. Col. Charles B. Hayden, 2nd Michigan Volunteer Infantry

We talked the matter over and could have settled the war in thirty minutes had it been left to us.
- A Rebel soldier, after speaking with a Union soldier between the lines.