Buying a Substitute in the North during the War (from Confederate War Etchings) 1861 - 1863

Adalbert John Volck, a Baltimore dentist and staunch Confederate sympathizer, created "Buying a Substitute in the North during the War," as part of his series "Confederate War Etchings." Volck's work provides a window into the social and political dynamics of the Civil War era. This etching depicts a Northern man purchasing a substitute to avoid military service. It subtly critiques the economic disparities of the time, where wealthier individuals could sidestep service, shifting the burden onto the working class. This system perpetuated inequalities, turning military service into a class issue. Volck's choice of subject matter highlights the human element amidst the conflict. The expressions and postures of the figures invite us to reflect on their individual stories and motivations. The image leaves us to consider the intersection of class, duty, and the personal choices made in times of war.