The Battle of Antietam had a huge impact on civilians because Alexander Gardner showed the first photographs of what it was like on the battlefield. The photo had showed everyone that war wasn't something easy, it was scary. People then began to realize what they were getting into.
The photos showed the gruesome effects of what the many soldiers went through. The photos showed that the Battle of Antietam was a very violent battle, many had gotten hurt or died. People began opening homes, and churches for hospitals for the soldiers. Lee later retreated from the battle and Lincoln finally issued that preliminary Proclamation. Later this would effect people because it freed some slaves in certain areas.
The photos showed the gruesome effects of what the many soldiers went through. The photos showed that the Battle of Antietam was a very violent battle, many had gotten hurt or died. People began opening homes, and churches for hospitals for the soldiers. Lee later retreated from the battle and Lincoln finally issued that preliminary Proclamation. Later this would effect people because it freed some slaves in certain areas.