Citizen Soldier brings the American citizen soldier to life for students, helping them appreciate both the challenges a nation faces in operating its military and the personal sacrifices and contributions citizen soldiers have made in fighting American wars.Placing the topic in historical context, Citizen Soldier traces the origins of the citizen soldier from ancient Greece to today. Activities and research are focused on two "defining moments" in U.S. history: African American soldiers during the Civil War and the San Patricios—Irish American soldiers in the Mexican-American War. At a time when the deployment of our regular military and National Guard is dominating headlines, this resource book offers an objective, history-based discussion of the role of the citizen soldier in America.