"Before my troops reached the little city, and before the people of Fredericksburg knew that any part of the Confederate army was near, there was great excitement over the demand for surrender"

This quote by James Longstreet is referring to the Battle of Fredericksburg throughout the American Civil War. Longstreet was a Confederate General as well as this quote is defining the events leading up to the battle. He is claiming that prior to his soldiers got to the city of Fredericksburg, the people were currently in a state of enjoyment as a result of the demand for abandonment. This need was likely issued by the Confederate army, as well as the people of Fredericksburg were most likely knowledgeable about the upcoming battle. Longstreet's troops were likely marching in the direction of the city, and individuals were most likely aware of their presence. This quote is a testimony to the anxiety and unpredictability that the people of Fredericksburg were feeling as they waited for the arrival of the Confederate army. It also functions as a tip of the devastating impacts of war on private citizens.