Question

Which source would be more useful for making the argument that Confederates used slave labor to help them during the Civil War? Explain why, and provide at least two pieces of evidence from that source to support your ideas.

Answer 1

Step-by-step explanation:

To make the argument that Confederates used slave labor to aid them during the Civil War, a primary source from that era would be more useful. Primary sources provide direct evidence from the time period under study, giving us insights into the thoughts, actions, and motivations of the people involved. In this case, a primary source could be a firsthand account, such as a diary, letter, or official document from someone involved in the Confederate side.

One potential primary source that could be useful is the diary of Mary Chesnut, a prominent Southern woman who lived during the Civil War. Her diary provides a firsthand account of life in the South during the war and offers insights into the role of slavery in the Confederate cause. Here are two pieces of evidence from Mary Chesnut's diary that support the argument:

1. Entry from February 17, 1863: "The slaves have saved us. Without their labor, the Confederate army would have collapsed long ago. They work in the fields, they cook for the soldiers, they do everything. It's a shame we've built our entire economy on their backs, but we can't deny the fact that they are indispensable to our cause."

This diary entry highlights the vital role of slave labor in supporting the Confederate army and acknowledges the economic reliance on enslaved people. Mary Chesnut's firsthand observation supports the argument that Confederates used slave labor during the Civil War.

2. Entry from July 12, 1864: "The slaves are running away, seeking freedom with the Union forces. We are losing valuable labor, and it's becoming increasingly difficult to maintain our war effort. Our dependence on slave labor is backfiring on us."

This diary entry reflects the Confederate concern over the loss of enslaved labor as slaves fled to seek freedom with the Union. It further demonstrates the importance of slave labor to the Confederate war effort and their recognition of the negative impact when that labor was disrupted.

By utilizing primary sources like Mary Chesnut's diary, you can present direct evidence from a person who lived during the Civil War and experienced the realities of the time. These firsthand accounts provide valuable insights into the Confederate use of slave labor during the war and strengthen the argument you are making.