America: The Story of Us: South Vs. The North

Lee, a graduate of Westpoint, is the obviously superior general of both sides. During Bull Run, Lee was able to destroy the Union's fifth regiment, which was the North's heaviest loss during the war. However, Lincoln's railroads meant that he was able to cut down travel times of troops and supplies by a very heavy amount. Once the railroads were under the government's control, the railroads became a very useful weapon of war. The South's railroads were under private control for the whole war. The North's industrial nature meant that swords, clothing, and other objects were able to be produced at a very large rate, which was the first time the industry was focused on the war effort. The South had no such luck. Also, the invention of the telegraph and morse code in 1844 provided instant messaging for messages to the North's army that the South couldn't use. Telegraphs became a deadly weapon, and Lincoln's control center. Lincoln had clear insight into his commander's tactics, and on an instant basis. Lincoln was also able to issue direct orders to his troops. Despite its obvious disadvantage, the South's belief of its cause made them refuse to give in.

America: The Story of Us: The Civil War's Modern Weapon Technology

The Civil War was the first time the  mini ball ammo was used used in battle. Unlike older ammunition, this type of bullet can cut through a person entirely. This was the primary reason the war was such a bloody conflict. The Civil War is also called the first modern war as a new, easy to reload musket equipped with rifling was introduced. It was quicker to fire, and more accurate than ever before because of the spiraled grooves on the inside, called rifling. A direct hit with this new combination of deadly firepower caused an unprecedented amount of bloodshed.