12 Amazing Photographs from the Civil War

The Civil War was certainly a defining moment in American History. While the U.S. was still a young nation, her strength was tested as brother fought brother and the nation’s future grew grim and uncertain.

Photography was also in its infancy at the time, and photographing major events (like war) was still a relatively new concept. Yet, war photojournalists were able to capture graphic images of the harsh realities on the frontlines, bringing a unique perspective to this moment in time.

Here are 12 amazing photos from the Civil War:

1. Former slaves collecting bones of soldiers killed in Battle of Cold Harbor (over a year after the battle was fought)…

2. Dead Confederate soldiers near the Dunker Church at Antietam (Sharpsburg), MD…

3. The Old Dorm at the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg, PA. Its cupola served as an observation tower during the Civil War. It also served as a hospital for wounded soldiers…

4. Lt. Commander Edward Barrett and Lt. Cornelius N. Schoonmaker of the U.S. Monitor Catskill at Battery Bee, Sullivan’s Island, Charleston Harbor…

5. The Old Exchange in Charleston, South Carolina, 1865…

6. East front of Arlington House (General Lee’s home), with Union soldiers on the lawn, 1864…

7. Adjusting the ropes for hanging the Lincoln assassination conspirators at the Washington Arsenal…

8. A deceased Confederate soldier in Gettysburg, near Devil’s Den…

9. Picket station of black troops near Dutch Gap canal, VA…

10. The President’s box at Ford’s Theatre after the assassination of President Lincoln in Washington, D.C…

11. The first inauguration of President Lincoln…

12. Embalming surgeon at work on a soldier’s body…