This social studies unit provides an impressionistic study of the Civil War soldier and of his changing attitudes toward that war. It contrasts the periods of his optimism early in the war and his nostalgic recollection of events after the war with the despair he experienced from 1862 to 1865. The materials are essentially anecdotal in character and include diaries, soldiers' letters, regimental accounts, and the personal reminiscences of Ulysses S. Grant and Robert E. Lee. They are intended to suggest the dichotomy between the romantic and realistic views of war and to clarify the feelings toward the war of soldiers on both sides. [Not available in hard copy due to marginal legibility of original document.] (Author/JB)