It contradicted the American belief of individual liberty. However, as the war became more protracted, both sides had to make use of conscripts
When did the North and South begin conscription?
1862 Southern Congress passed a law that meant all white men aged 18-35 were declared to be part of the Confederate Army (there were some exemptions and loopholes). This led to much resentment. 1863 Federal Enrolment Act meant that every able—bodied man aged 25-45 was at the disposal of the army
Was it successful?
There was a substitute system whereby the rick could buy themselves out. In the North a total of 774 000 conscripts were called upon but it was deeply unpopular and numerous loopholes meant that only 6% (47 000) served. There was massive dislike and exemptions
Impact on nature?
While some conscripts did serve, the bulk of the
forces were made up of patriots which allowed
for high casualty figures (over 600 000). Overall they werent a huge deal though
