Throughout the difficult years in the late 1800s in the United States, there was just one item that held incredible importance for all people. Civil war battle flags symbolized the one thing that meant the most to them and that was their home. The flag of a nation as well of a regiment meant so much and was also an integral part of the battlefield.
In times of battle when men took to the fields to fight for their beliefs, these flags were extraordinarily important. They marked locations and positions so that soldiers could stay with their fellow troops and follow the commands given by the generals. The training that soldiers endured often directed them to remain close to the flag and always be on the lookout for it even when chaos was erupting all around them.
The colors on the various designs were specific and had to be visible and distinct. In many cases a commander would create the flag and choose the colors which would represent their brigade. Loud gun fire and bursting cannons made it so difficult to navigate in times of combat so the flag was only thing that the troops could look to for guidance.
There were many different designs for the North and the South states as well as individual regiments. The North had several versions of the United States flag which are all similar to the one that is used today. The Confederacy had many flags of their own as well, with several versions of an official national flag.
A team of esteemed soldiers was chosen by the commanding officer to be the color guard and they were entrusted with carrying the flags during battle. Two men were given the duty of holding the regiment symbol and the nation\’s symbol while the remaining two soldiers were to be their guards. This position came with no small amount of respect and while an honorable position, it was often a fatal one.
The soldiers that were designated as color bearers had to be unarmed and face their enemy straight on. They would follow the general\’s command and stay close by them to help lead the troops forward. They could not turn around and run or retreat because they had to be courageous and forge ahead.
It is very rare to see a flag from this era today that is in great condition. They can fetch a very large sum of money at auction or through a sale from a private collector. Many of the original artifacts have suffered not only from original damage but also from the wear and tear of time.
Replicas of civil war battle flags can be bought and many people, particularly in the Southern states, enjoy showing their regional pride by hanging a flag. These symbols still hold deep meaning for some folks. You can see many of these items on display in historical museums and you can buy cotton or polyester replicas for your own personal collection or to have on display at home.
For the finest in American civil war battle flags and authentic products go to www.timelesscolors.com. You will find many hard to find items at http://www.timelesscolors.com.
Civil War Battle Flags Bring A Sense Of History
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