Field Fortifications During the American Civil War: A Tactical Problem

摘要

This study analyzes field fortifications and their effects on combat operationsduring the American Civil War. This study is divided into three areas. First is the instruction and practical training on field fortifications available to the future Civil War officers. Second is the construction of field fortifications including the different types of fortifications and their integration into defensive lines with obstacles. Finally, are the lessons learned in combat operations using field fortifications during the Civil War and how they helped to change and develop U.S. tactics creating new, usable doctrine. At the start of the war, commanders found that few officers had any first-hand experience with field fortifications. Although many of the regular army officers had studied engineer concepts at West Point, few had any experience other than with static defenses or coastal fortifications. When Union and Confederate armies conducted large-scale operations, defensive positions were built to protect supply lines. Small forces used field fortifications to multiply their combat power against any larger force. Commanders were forced to realize that the tactical manuals of the day were just parade drill manuals and could not help them when it came to using field fortifications.