Rebel Yell

Confederate soldiers used the rebel yell as a battle cry during the American Civil War. Confederate soldiers would use the yell during charges to intimidate the enemy and boost their own morale, although the yell had other uses. The exact sound of the yell is unknown and the subject of much speculation and debate. Likewise, the origin of the yell is uncertain.

Origins

The yell has often been linked to Native American cries. Confederate soldiers may have either imitated or learned the yell from Native American groups, many of whom sided with the Confederacy. The yell has also been associated with hunting cries. Perhaps Confederate soldiers imitated the cries of their hunting dogs.

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Another plausible source of the rebel yell, advanced by the historian Grady McWhinney, is that it derived from the screams traditionally made by Scottish Highlanders when making a Highland charge during battle.

Related Topics:
Scottish - Highland charge

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Considering the existence of many differing versions of the yell, it may have multiple origins.

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