This wide-ranging account of the giant military-supply system the North developed after 1861 reconstructs an important but little-known part of Civil War history. In his study of army politics, production, and procurement, Mark R. Wilson offers a fresh view of the wartime North and the ways in which its economy worked.

"A fascinating account of how the North marshaled its economic might to win the Civil War."--Journal of Economic History

"Anyone interested in the antebellum army, the Civil War, or the role of the military in the American political economy will find this book worthwhile."--Journal of Military History

"An outstanding contribution to our understanding of the military's role in society, politics, and the economy during the nineteenth century."--Technology and Culture

"Wilson provides an excellent treatment of the constantly evolving financial and manufacturing infrastructure that supported United States armies during the Civil War."--The Historian

"An excellent contribution to the general understanding of Union military institutions."--American Historical Review

"A compelling account of the political economy of Northern mobilization."--Enterprise and Society

Mark R. Wilson is an associate professor of history at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.