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History Alive! The United States
Internet Project

The Civil War
Chapter 21:

You will write a "Brush with Fame" story dealing with a major event of the Civil War. In a "Brush with Fame" assignment, an ordinary person or object tells the story of their encounter with a famous individual. Using the links provided, find specific information about a major Civil War event that interests you (for example, Pickett's Charge at Gettysburg). Use the information to write a short story from the point of view of an ordinary person or object that was present at the event (for example, a tree or a soldier witnessing Pickett's Charge at Gettysburg). Your short story must have the following features:
  • •  a catchy title
  • •  the point of view of an ordinary person or object
  • •  five key facts about the event, each underlined in the text of your story
  • •  a colorful illustration that helps tell the story
  • •  proper grammar and spelling
  • •  250 to 500 words
Use the following websites to get information on the Civil War event of your choice.

Manassas - The official website of the Manassas battlefield contains information about both battles of Bull Run, including a virtual tour. The site also has teacher resources and an on-line student activity booklet.

Anietam National Battlefield - This National Park Service website offers everything you need to know about the bloody battle of Antietam. The phases of the battle are described in detail, battlefield images are available, and additional "special subjects" are covered.

Gettysburg National Military Park - The website of this turning point of the Civil War contains a plethora of information about the battle itself, the National Cemetery, and soldier life. The site also contains one of the best on-line museum exhibits about soldier life during the war.

Vicksburg National Military Park - The Union siege of Vicksburg is chronicled in this site. A narrative history is available, along with additional detail on the commanders and troops. Take the on-line tour!

54th Massachusetts, Company B - This website is produced by Civil War re-enactors devoted to the Massachusetts 54th regiment. A short history of the regiment is offered, along with links to other related sites.

Appomattox Court House National Historical Park - Want to read more on Lees surrender to Grant? This NPS website has detailed information on the Appomattox Campaign, the McLean House, and the actual surrender.

The History Place – The U.S. Civil War - The History Place offers a timeline of the war with links and images of all major events.

The U.S. Civil War Center - Louisiana State University has the most comprehensive Civil War site available on the Internet. Use the index of information available on the Internet to find what you are looking for.
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