"Under the Guns: A Woman's Reminiscences of the Civil War" by Annie Wittenmyer is a vivid and deeply personal account of life on the front lines—not as a soldier, but as a compassionate and determined woman who witnessed the brutal realities of war while tirelessly serving the wounded and the dying. Through her firsthand experiences as a nurse and humanitarian during the American Civil War, Wittenmyer offers powerful insights into the courage, sacrifice, and resilience that marked both battlefield and hospital. Her narrative captures the raw emotional toll of war, the strength of the women who stepped beyond traditional roles to meet extraordinary needs, and the enduring humanity found even amidst chaos and destruction. Themes of service, empathy, and moral resolve run through every chapter, offering modern readers a reminder of the often-overlooked contributions of women in times of national crisis. In an era when questions of service, equality, and social responsibility still ring loud, Wittenmyer’s story remains deeply relevant. This memoir will move readers who appreciate history through a personal lens and those inspired by stories of quiet heroism, compassion under pressure, and the vital roles women have always played in shaping the course of events from behind the scenes.
