During America's Civil War over 150 military prison facilities dotted the country, North and South, Some were used to hold prisoners for a short time until they were paroled. In the early months of the war, opposing commanders often exchanged the prisoners they held informally. The exchange system broke down early in the war, and later Union commanders opposed returning Confederate prisoners, since many would soon serve again. Camps erected to house small populations for short terms became overcrowded with prisoners. The system to feed them, provide proper medical care, and shelter them broke down as well, especially in the south.

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