From Bull Run to Appomattox: A Boy's View

"From Bull Run to Appomattox: A Boy's View" by Luther W. Hopkins is a story told by a young Confederate cavalry soldier during the Civil War, aiming to highlight the experiences of boys in battle. The narrative starts by looking back at the soldier's youthful eagerness for war and the growing unrest in Virginia before the war began, showcasing how the youth and his school friends were excited to join the Confederate army, while also noting their limited understanding of what war would really be like. Important historical events, such as John Brown's Raid and Lincoln's election, are also introduced, showing how the young boy understood the events leading up to war and reflecting a longing for his childhood. This personal look offers a view into a youthful perspective on events that changed the nation.