Revisiting this battle through the “eyes” of the men who were there, both leaders and rank-and-file soldiers, allows one insights into decision mak-ing under pressure and the human condition during battle. The campaign contains many lessons in command and control, communications, intelli-gence, logistics, the accommodation of advances in weapon technology, and mobilization in the absence of universal military training.
First Bull Run was a first battle—a major engagement after a prolonged period of peace.