Final answer:
Yes, this man is correct. The Confederate Army did experience significant issues with desertion as the Civil War progressed. Contributing factors included class divisions, states' rights disagreements, conscription laws, and general waning enthusiasm for the war. The initial zeal for fighting diminished over time, leading to manpower shortages and a struggle to maintain a committed fighting force.
Step-by-step explanation:
In 1862, the concern of a slaveholder in northern Alabama about how slavery threatened the Confederate war effort and the willingness of men to fight reflected a broader issue that emerged as the conflict continued. Indeed, desertion became a significant problem for the Confederate army as the Civil War progressed. Factors contributing to this included class divisions, states' rights issues, and the institution of conscription laws. The Confederate government encountered problems with manpower shortages, due in part to the reluctance of states to contribute resources and troops, and class resentments where wealthy slaveholders could more easily avoid service. Additionally, the Confederate cause was hampered by its own internal conflicts, including disagreements over centralization of power and dissent from figures such as Vice President Alexander Stephens.
As the war dragged on, both the Union and the Confederacy found it increasingly difficult to recruit soldiers. By 1862, the initial enthusiasm for the war had waned, and the remains of patriot zeal could not suffice to keep men fighting. Measures such as conscription were introduced; for example, Robert E. Lee recommended the enactment of conscription laws as early as March 1862 to bolster the ranks. Despite facing similar issues of morale and recruitment, the Union could leverage the Emancipation Proclamation to redefine the war's purpose, which increased the manpower as African Americans were eventually allowed to enlist.
Overall, the Alabama slaveholder's remarks did have merit as the Confederate struggle with desertion did indeed underscore the challenges faced in maintaining a committed fighting force throughout the war. Lack of unity in purpose, class grievances, and the central conundrum of slavery's defense undeniably weakened the Confederate war effort.