The first in the General John A. Logan Museum’s four-part series.
Caught in the Sweep of History, Egypt in the Civil War. Part One explains the reputation, politics, and racial views of the people of Southern Illinois, derisively called “Egypt” at the time, through its congressman, John A. Logan. As the Civil War began, the region underwent a period of uncertainty as Congressman Logan, seeking a compromise to war, remained silent even after the attack on Fort Sumter. This silence led to accusations of treason. In June 1861, Logan broke his silence with a speech to Union troops in Springfield, Illinois and in August he raised a Union regiment, the 31st Illinois Infantry. By the spring of 1862, over six hundred of Egypt’s brothers, sons, and fathers had died from disease and battles, including the Battles of Belmont, Fort Donelson, and Shiloh. At Grant’s request, Logan is promoted to brigadier general.