How did casualty rates in the US Civil War compare to those of the Napoleonic Era?

Answer 1

Early US Civil War battle tactics were similar to those of armies in the Napoleonic era. Here's a typical Civil War battle tactic, as the battle moved along, however, the commanders of each side adjusted themselves depending on results and the terrain. Basically they each followed this routine:

* An offensive minded commander selects an approach road for each of his corps or divisions;

* These approach roads are often roads of retreat, and behind the main armies are supply lines for ammunition, food and other needs;

* At the time most favorable the commander, commences an advance against the enemy;

* Unless the attacking armies have overwhelming numerical advantages, the commander of each of the armies seeks to protect their flanks. This protection can be in the form of a physical obstacle like a set of hills or a stream large enough to slow an advance against a flank attack. Or,

the top commander has furnished a body of troops specifically meant to guard against a flank attack;

* The most important thing is to develop a continuous battle line facing the enemy with atleast one to two lines behind the front line;

* Once the battle lines of the attacking army are set to the satisfaction of the top commander, an attack is begun. The central idea is to always have a solid battle line; and

* From that point all other tactics can be employed as the battle progresses.

These are general principles, and were used by both Napoleon and his enemies. Clearly artillery and cavalry are placed in the most favorable positions.

Answer 2

Casualty numbers in the US Civil War were similar to casualties in the Napoleonic Era. Historians often compare these wars in terms of logistics, tactics, weapons and casualties. As examples, major US Civil battles with high casualties include the following:Antietam: 22,000 in a space of 12 hours;

Second Bull Run: 24,000 in two days;

Chancellorsville: 30,000 in four days:

Gettysburg: 43,000 in three days;

Atlanta Campaign: 19,000; and

Overland Campaign: 55,000

Note: These are examples for the purpose of comparisons to the Napoleonic Era.

Large Napoleonic Era battles:

1859 Solferino: 40,000 in twelve hours;

1812 Borodino: 75,000 in twelve hours; and

1813 Leipzig: 127,000 in four days.

These set of figures are presented to display the fact that casualties in both eras were frequently similar.