Question 1: Why do you think the geographical location of Andersonville was chosen?
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Question 2: Why would it be challenging to run a prison during wartime?
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Question 3: How do we know about the conditions at Andersonville? What primary sources/artifacts have historians used to learn about life at Andersonville?
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Question 1: The geographical location of Andersonville was likely chosen because it was far from the front lines of the Civil War, making it less susceptible to direct attacks. Additionally, its proximity to railroad lines made transportation of supplies and prisoners easier.
Question 2: Running a prison during wartime would be challenging due to the constant influx of new prisoners, scarcity of resources, and the need to maintain strict security measures. The chaotic nature of war can also lead to overcrowding and a lack of proper infrastructure.
Question 3: Historians have learned about the conditions at Andersonville through various primary sources and artifacts. These include diaries and letters written by prisoners, official reports and records, photographs taken by soldiers, and testimonies from survivors. Additionally, archaeological excavations at the site have uncovered physical remains and structures that provide further insight into life at Andersonville.