First Blood to the South: Bull Run, 1861 The rebel yell that dispelled hopes of a quick Union victory – Brian Holden Reid looks at the battle that set the scene for the American Civil War's protracted and bloody conflict. Brian Holden-Reid | Published in History Today Volume 42 Issue 3 March 1992 To continue reading this article you need to purchase a subscription, available from only £5. Start my trial subscription now If you have already purchased access, or are a print & archive subscriber, please ensure you are logged in. Please email digital@historytoday.com if you have any problems. American Civil War Popular articles Why Do Religions Decline? The Iron Amir: Britain’s Afghan Legacy