Anne Elizabeth Murphy
Drop-in Assignment #3

LETTERS HOME

Introduction:

    Throughout time, the best way to know what people were thinking is through the written word.  Since inventions such as the television, radio, recordings and the Internet are all relatively new.  By observing the course of the human heart we can bear witness to events in a whole new light.  Reading the words and thoughts of those who lived through historic events helps us to better understand history.  The events of time come off the page and can be transformed into a new reality when we learn of the people who were affected.   Letters and journals allow us to see into the personal side of history rather than the political and military aspect of  history.

Assignment:

    This assignment will allow us to look at the life of an everyday family, probably not that different than you and me.  The family is from Rhode Island and the father has been sent away to war.  It is the summer of 1861.  As we know from our studies, the American Civil War began in 1861.  The husband writes home to his wife and speaks of his wishes and desires for their family.  He and his men will die a week after he sends the letter.  He obviously did not know this when he wrote the letter.  He speaks  proudly of the cause for which he fights but he also speaks of a great deal of love for his family.  The picture of Major Sullivan Ballou, below, will provide the link to the letter when clicked on.  

   

As you read this letter, answer the following questions:
    1.  Do you believe that the average American feels as passionately about his country today, as Sullivan did in 1861?
    2.  Do you think he agrees with the cause for war?  Why or why not?  Support your answer.
    3.  How do you think Sullivan felt being so far from his family? Did that strengthen or weaken his will?  Support your answers.