Final answer:
The 'southern home guards' were local militia units formed during the Civil War to defend their communities and support the Confederate Army. They freed up regular troops and boosted morale.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 'southern home guards' were local militia units that were formed by men who were too old or otherwise unfit for regular military service during the American Civil War. These units were responsible for defending their local communities and providing support for the Confederate Army. Although they were not part of the official Confederate Army, the southern home guards played a crucial role in supplementing the Confederate forces and protecting the home front.
One impact of the southern home guard units on the Confederate Army was that they freed up regular troops to be deployed to the front lines. By defending their communities, the home guards helped to maintain order and security, which allowed the Confederate Army to focus on its military operations. Additionally, the presence of the home guards helped boost morale among the civilian population, as they provided a sense of security and protection.