Question

Why did the north and south begin to use conscription early in the war

Answer 1

The north and south began o use conscription early in the war to ensure that they had enough people in their army fighting in the warfront.

Explanation:

The conscription act passed by the US congress during the civil war demanded that all citizens between the age of 20 and 45 have to join the military to serve in the war. The conscription also mentioned aliens who required the citizenship of US. In order to be exempted from the military service people had to pay $300 which was a high sum at that time.

This meant that only the rich could afford exemption and this led to revolts in many parts of US. The Draft Riots of New York is an example. The confederate states government also passed the conscription draft to enhance the strength of their military force.