Meaning: Bruce Catton, a renowned American historian and journalist, reflects on his motivation and purpose as a writer in this quote. He expresses a subconscious drive to articulate and affirm a particular faith, grounded in the experiences and beliefs of the young men who participated in significant historical events. Catton's words reveal his deep connection to the individuals who shaped history and his commitment to portraying their stories with authenticity and reverence.

Catton's assertion that he was "subconsciously driven by an attempt to restate that faith" suggests a profound personal and emotional investment in his work as a historian. It implies that his writing was not simply an academic or professional pursuit, but a deeply felt endeavor to capture and convey a fundamental aspect of human experience. This "faith" may refer to the underlying principles, values, and convictions that motivated the individuals he studied, as well as his own belief in the significance of their contributions to history.

Furthermore, Catton emphasizes the importance of demonstrating where this faith was "properly grounded," indicating his concern for historical accuracy and context. By seeking to elucidate the origins and foundations of the beliefs held by the young men he references, Catton underscores his commitment to presenting a comprehensive and nuanced portrayal of history. In doing so, he aims to provide a deeper understanding of the forces that shaped the actions and decisions of historical figures, thereby enriching the historical narrative with a greater sense of depth and complexity.

Catton's reference to "what a great many young men on both sides felt and believed and were brave enough to do" highlights his focus on the human dimension of history. He recognizes the agency and courage of individuals who were often youthful, idealistic, and willing to take significant risks in service of their beliefs. This acknowledgment of their bravery and convictions underscores Catton's intention to illuminate the human stories behind the historical events he explores, portraying the individuals involved as fully realized and empathetic figures rather than mere abstract actors in a distant past.

In the context of Catton's broader body of work, this quote resonates with his commitment to Civil War history and his distinctive approach to narrative storytelling. Throughout his career, Catton dedicated himself to chronicling the experiences of soldiers and civilians during the American Civil War, offering vivid and evocative accounts that captured the human drama and moral complexity of the conflict. His writing often focused on the perspectives of ordinary individuals caught up in extraordinary circumstances, reflecting his belief in the inherent significance of their stories within the larger tapestry of history.

In conclusion, Bruce Catton's quote encapsulates his deep-seated motivation as a historian to convey the faith, bravery, and beliefs of individuals who played pivotal roles in shaping history. His dedication to grounding this faith in its proper context, as well as his emphasis on the experiences of young men on both sides of historical conflicts, reflects a profound commitment to humanizing the past and illuminating the enduring relevance of the individual within the broader sweep of history. Catton's words serve as a testament to the power of historical storytelling to convey the richness and complexity of human experience across time and to inspire a deeper appreciation for the diverse and often untold stories that comprise our collective history.