The colorful and exotic Algerian apparel that French soldiers saw when they invaded Algeria in 1830 captured their imagination. First adopted by French colonial soldiers in North Africa in the 1830s, the appeal of the dashing Zouave image quickly extended worldwide. It reached the United States by mid-century. Militia units and volunteer drill teams wore Zouave uniforms designed by group organizers and unit members as they performed and competed in public. In the American Civil War, more than 70 volunteer Zouave units fought for the Union, and 25 for fought the Confederacy.

Use this Investigation Sheet to guide students through describing the object and analyzing its meaning.