The Kojo Nnamdi Show

The Civil War brings to mind many images - generals on horseback, gray and blue uniforms, dueling flags - but what about rabbis, synagogues and Jewish soldiers? A surprising number of Jews participated in the war on both sides, as cabinet members, spies, and foot soldiers. Washington's Jewish population grew tenfold during the war, and a number of colorful personalities made their mark on American history here. We explore some of the lesser-known Civil War stories.