So lets take it for granted that there are several opinions out there about the reasons for the war. Arming the slaves became a reality to late to have any impact on the results. My question is considering the numbers and logistics involved what do you think the results would have been if this doctrine had been implemented sooned say 1864, would southern blacks enlist in significant numbers and would they have been effective as soldiers for the confederacy. Lee thought so. In March of 65 I believe only a small number I think 9 enlisted from the stewards at Chimbarozo. My thoughts on this are that given a totally free choice most would leave the ranks at the first opportunity. I would like other opinions