The theme of holy war is present in the book "What They Fought For 1861-1865" by James McPherson. The book examines the reasons why soldiers fought in the American Civil War and highlights how religion played a role in motivating soldiers on both sides of the conflict. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Many soldiers in the Union Army believed they were fighting for a noble cause: the preservation of the United States as one united country. They saw their struggle as a defense of the Constitution and the principles of freedom and equality on which the nation was founded. For these soldiers, war was a sacred duty and they believed that God was on their side. On the other hand, many soldiers in the Confederate Army believed they were fighting to defend their rights as citizens of their states. They saw the war as a struggle for self-government and states' rights and believed that God had ordained their cause. For these soldiers, war was a sacred duty and they believed that God was on their side. In addition to these general beliefs, soldiers on both sides also cited specific religious reasons for fighting. Union soldiers often cited the abolition of slavery as a moral imperative, and many believed that God had called them to fight to end this evil institution. Confederate soldiers, on the other hand, often cited their belief in the Bible's teachings on the sanctity of property and a state's right to secede from the Union. Despite these differences, both Union and Confederate soldiers were united in their belief that the war was a holy and just cause. They believed that God was guiding their actions and that they were fighting to uphold the principles of righteousness and justice. Furthermore, God played a significant role in the Civil War, not only as an inspiration for the soldiers' actions, but also as a source of comfort. , guidance and understanding of the purpose and meaning of their sacrifices. Soldiers invoked God's name in their letters, diaries, and speeches. They wrote of the sense of divine protection they felt on the battlefield and often asked God for guidance and strength. They also wrote about the guilt they felt for taking part in the war and the pain of losing friends and family. Religion played a role in shaping soldiers' understanding of death and the afterlife. Many soldiers believed that dying for a just cause was a noble and heroic act and that God would reward them in the afterlife. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay In conclusion, the theme of holy war was prevalent in the American Civil War, with soldiers on both sides invoking God and religion to justify their actions and to find meaning in the sacrifices they made. The book "What They Fought For 1861-1865" by James McPherson illustrates how religion played a significant role in motivating soldiers and shaping their understanding of war. Shows how faith in a just cause and God's guidance helped soldiers endure the hardships of war and find purpose in their sacrifices.