In Their Letters, in Their Words

Main Themes and Topics

In Their Letters, in Their Words by Mark Flotow explores the personal experiences of 165 Illinois Civil War soldiers and sailors through their letters. These letters serve as windows into the soldiers' lives, capturing their thoughts on themes such as enlistment motives, daily military life, Southern culture, and views on slavery. Furthermore, the book delves into the soldiers' relationships with their commanding officers, health issues, and experiences as prisoners of war. The inclusion of various personal topics, such as soldiers managing households or courting from afar, provides a broad and intimate perspective on life during the Civil War.

Writing Style and Tone

Mark Flotow’s writing style in In Their Letters, in Their Words is characterized by meticulous research and a commitment to authenticity. By using extensive quotations from soldiers' letters, Flotow allows the original voices of these historical figures to shine through. The tone is both respectful and informative, weaving soldiers' personal narratives with historical context to enhance the reader's understanding of the era.

Awards and Recognition

In Their Letters, in Their Words was awarded the Russell P. Strange Memorial Book of the Year Award by the Illinois State Historical Society in 2020. This recognition underscores the book's contribution to historical scholarship and its value in shedding light on the personal experiences of Civil War soldiers from Illinois.

Brief Summary

The book presents a compendium of letters from 165 soldiers and sailors from Illinois who served during the Civil War. By documenting soldiers' thoughts on various aspects of military and personal life, In Their Letters, in Their Words paints a detailed picture of their experiences. These firsthand accounts offer insights into their motivations, struggles, and interactions with the world around them, making it a compelling read for those interested in American history and the personal dimensions of war.