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The Beat of Bravery: Discovering the History of the Civil War Drummer Boys

Drummer Boys and their music played an essential roll in the Civil War. We will learn about the Civil War Drummer Boys, meet the one of the youngest soldiers the Drummer Boy of Chickamauga, and learn why these kids were so important.
Paul Kopulos, MFA
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:
(154)
Star Educator
Class

What's included

1 live meeting
50 mins in-class hours
Certificate of Completion
included

Class Experience

US Grade 4 - 7
Step back in time to the tumultuous days of the American Civil War and uncover the heroic and fascinating stories of the youngest soldiers: the drummer boys. This course, designed for history enthusiasts and young learners alike, delves into the lives, duties, and bravery of these young boys who played a crucial role in the war. From their distinctive uniforms to the rhythmic beats that guided soldiers on the battlefield, you will discover how these young drummers left an indelible mark on history. Join us as we explore their extraordinary contributions and the lasting legacy they created.

Key Topics Covered:

Introduction to Civil War Drummer Boys:
   - Overview of the role and significance of drummer boys during the Civil War.
   - Age and recruitment of drummer boys.

Some Notable Drummer Boys:
   - John Clem (Johnny Shiloh): Learn about one of the most famous drummer boys who became a national hero.
   - Orion P. Howe: Recognized for his bravery and awarded the Medal of Honor.
   - Robert Hendershot: Known for his courage at the Battle of Fredericksburg.
   - And more

Uniforms and Equipment:
   - Detailed examination of the uniforms worn by drummer boys, including distinctive features and differences between Union and Confederate attire.
   - Overview of the drums and other equipment used by these young soldiers.

Daily Life and Duties:
   - Insight into the daily routines and responsibilities of drummer boys in camp and on the battlefield.
   - The importance of drum calls in communication and maintaining order among troops.

Types of Drum Calls:
   - Reveille: The morning call to wake the soldiers.
   - Assembly: The signal for troops to gather for formation.
   - Tattoo: The evening signal indicating it was time to go to quarters.
   - Battlefield Signals: Drumming patterns used to relay commands during battles.
   - And more

Training and Skills:
   - The rigorous training drummer boys underwent to master their craft.
   - Techniques and skills required to perform various drum calls accurately.

Bravery and Impact:
   - Stories of courage and how drummer boys influenced the morale and efficiency of their units.
   - The lasting legacy of these young soldiers in American history.

Join us in this captivating journey through history and discover the echoes of courage that still resonate from the beats of the Civil War drummer boys.
Learning Goals
By participating in this course, students will gain a multifaceted understanding of the Civil War through the lens of the drummer boys, experiencing history in a dynamic and engaging way.
They will develop a deep appreciation for the role of drummer boys, understanding their significance beyond mere musicians and learning about the broader context of the Civil War, including the daily lives of soldiers and the structure of military units.
learning goal

Other Details

External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
To develop this class, I have extensively used several key resources, including: 1) "Drummer Boys of the Civil War": This book provides a comprehensive overview of the young musicians' experiences and roles during the war. 2) "Drummer Boy: Marching to the Civil War": This narrative explores the personal journey of a young drummer boy and his contributions to the war effort. 3) "Civil War Drummer Boy": A detailed account of the lives and duties of drummer boys, highlighting their importance in the Civil War. 4) "Of Age: Boy Soldiers and Military Power in the Civil War Era": This book examines the broader context of boy soldiers and their impact on military power during the Civil War. Additionally, I have utilized academic texts such as: 1) "Civil War Drummer Boys: Musicians, Messengers, and Medical Assistants from the Military Museum": This text delves into the multifaceted roles of drummer boys beyond music, including their contributions as messengers and medical assistants. 2) "More than a Drummer Boy's War: A Historical View of Musicians in the American Civil War": This work provides a broader historical perspective on the significance of musicians in the war. 3) "Researching a Civil War Drummer Boy": A guide to uncovering the personal histories and contributions of individual drummer boys. This is just a portion of the books and articles I have read and used for this class. If you would like a complete list of the titles, please feel free to reach out, and I can provide you with a full list.
Joined April, 2020
4.9
154reviews
Star Educator
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
Master's Degree in English from Simmons University
With extensive expertise in various historical topics, I offer a comprehensive understanding of pivotal moments and marginalized groups throughout history. My knowledge spans the courageous roles of Civil War drummer boys, including their daily lives, uniforms, and significant contributions on the battlefield. I have delved into the impactful stories of Civil War dogs and the often-overlooked contributions of women during this tumultuous period. Additionally, I possess a deep understanding of the Holocaust, focusing on both the harrowing experiences of its victims and the resilience of the children who lived through it. My studies extend to the rich and complex history of LGBTQIA+ communities, highlighting their struggles, triumphs, and the significant figures who have shaped their journey. Through these diverse historical lenses, I aim to provide a nuanced and inclusive perspective on the past, bringing to light the stories of those who have often been overlooked or forgotten.

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Live One-Time Class
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$18

per class
Meets once
50 min

Completed by 53 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 8-13
3-10 learners per class

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