[Non-Sequitur]

Be prepared? Be prepared for what? The build up was done in spite of the fact that not a single hostile action had come from Washington. It was done at a time when the confederates were supposed to be 'negotiating' a peaceful settlement. It was done at a time when the United States Army had been reduced to about 12,000 effective soldiers by desertions and defections to the southern rebellion. The only possible reason for building up an army 8 times the size of your opponent is to prepare for a war that you plan on starting.

[4CJ]

The only possible reason for building up an army 8 times the size of your opponent is to prepare for a war that you plan on starting.

They could have been preapring for an European invasion. They didn't have a navy to defend themselves.

;o)      (Shhhhh - up to 919)