Throughout history, women have done heroic and outstanding deeds. These women are often the ones responsible for the outcome of history, but they are frequently overlooked by historians and are not acknowledged for their accomplishments. Some historians and writers feel women "just don't belong" on the list of great people, especial women who didn't follow the social norms of that period. My thesis will support why it is important to research and share the role of women during the civil war. I have chosen four women, two from the North and two from the South; each with their unique and courageous story. Elizabeth Van Lew, was from the high society of Richmond Virginia. Yet Miss. Van Lew was a spy for the Union. She even had the opportunity to gain access into the Southern White House, and gather important information. Harriet Tubman, a runaway slave, helped the North by encouraging slaves through the Underground Railroad. Belle Boyd's life was endangered after her espionage was publicaly revealed. Rose O'Neal Greenhow, is credited for the Confederate victory of the first Battle of Bull Run. .
These women left manuscripts, personal letters, and diaries. Documents such as these, are some of the only information we have about the mysterious world of secret agents during the Civil War era. Without these few surviving documents, we may have never known the dangerous and effective roles these women played during the Civil War.
History has shown that the roles of women have often gone unappreciated. Their efforts to aid their loyalties and beliefs are considered "dirty" warfare. Historians seem to have something against acknowledging these activities, therefore documents having to do with disloyalty, treason, court-martials, and espionage are not readily available. However, the names of these brave women who risked their lives and their dignity in underground projects have finally been released to the public.