Bayonets and Baggy Trousers: American Civil War Zouaves

Storming the heights of the Alma, charging gallantly at the Battle of Inkerman and scrambling up the Malakoff during the Crimean War, with their heroic actions during the Crimean War and their distinctive dress the Zouaves of the French army became media darlings during the late19th century, celebrated in print and song. Newspapers and magazines were full of accounts of their daring.

In America Elmer E. Ellsworth, lawyer and military enthusiast, toured the country in 1859 with the unit he created, the United States Zouave Cadets. On the eve of the Civil War, a Zouave craze swept the country. Many eager recruits saw themselves as something more than blue or grey clad volunteers. They would join Zouave regiments instead.

More than 50 Zouave regiments were formed, mainly in the North. Many achieved impressive service records. One of the most famous, was the 5th New York Volunteer Infantry. At Second Bull Run in 1862 they suffered appalling casualties.

About the Speaker

Robin Smith is the author of American Civil War Zouaves, Number 62 in the Osprey publishing Elite series. He is a member of the 5th New York re-enactment group and has travelled to the Sates many times to campaign with the unit. He has written for many military magazines and he is also renowned as a pop music journalist.  Kate Bush hates him, Madonna kissed him and he almost joined the French Foreign Legion with Ozzy Osbourne!

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