Florida's Civil War: Terrible Sacrifices

Though far from the major theaters of battle, Floridians experienced every facet of the Civil War. While most Florida soldiers fought for the Confederacy, many Floridians, including former slaves, enlisted with the Union. Families were divided and partisanship tore communities apart. Some Floridians produced salt, beef, and supplies for the Confederacy; others profited during Union occupations. The one notable battle fought in Florida, the Battle of Olustee, was disproportionately bloody. The third state to secede, Florida was ignored and unprotected by the Confederacy. The home front was contested, especially in port cities, and many Floridians became refugees. Raids and guerilla activity inflicted misery on civilians. While Confederate patriotism ruled in Middle Florida, in other areas apathy or a growing Unionism led to deprivations and desertion. Slaves fled to freedom and neighbor turned against neighbor.