The Civil War sometimes called The American Iliad is an epic of violence rage bravery and love whose echoes still can be heard. Americas bloodiest day was September 17 1862--the Battle of Antietam or Sharpsburg which enabled President Lincoln to issue a proclamation freeing all slaves in the rebellious states. The battles story is told here by two soldiers: a Yankee who fights for union justice and equality; and a Rebel for whom the war is a battle for freedom. Both voices still haunt todays struggles over race rights and the flag.