The Civil War witnessed a significant expansion of America's military forces. Both the Union and the Confederacy assembled armies of unprecedent size requiring a significant number of general officers. As a result, many general officers attained high rank while being relatively young.

UFM Lifetime Learning presents Young Union Generals of the American Civil War. This three-part class will begin Wednesday, May 29, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Community Room. The second and third session will meet Wednesday, June 5, and June 12. The sessions will focus on Union senior leaders under the age of 40 who attained high command. The first session will examine and evaluate the military careers of the young generals of the eastern theater's Army of the Potomac such as Joshua Chamberlain, George Custer, Alfred Pleasonton, and Philip Sheridan.

The June 5 class will focus on young Union leaders in the western theater such as Benjamin Grierson, Judson Kilpatrick, John Schofeld, James Wilson, and James McPherson.

The final class will exclusively examine the military career of William T. Sherman who achieved command of the entire western theater at the age of 35.

Enrollment is now open and can be completed by calling (785) 539-8763. This class is offered through UFM at no charge to Meadowlark residents, and Passport members may attend with a 20-percent discount.