The Photographic History of the Civil War was first published in 1911 to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of the great conflict. These volumes were dedicated to the American People in tribute to the courage and the valor with which they met one of the greatest crises that a nation has ever known. A crisis that changed the course of civilization. Contained within are thousands of photographs as well as the rise of photographic journalism during a conflict. This series offers a unique record of one of the greatest conflicts in the history of mankind. Included in this series are maps to mark the battles and line-art decorations that give the reader an authentic feel of the era. The photographs in this series can be viewed as art, history or more importantly journalism. Covering every aspect of war- from the frontline to everyday life- these volumes are a testament to the conflict and the country which emerged from it. The Opening Battles is a record of the opening days of the war. It covers the first of the great campaigns until engagements ending in July of 1862.