How come soldiers in old wars like the American Civil War did “line” battles? Would it be better if that have taken cover?

Question

Title. I’m really confused about this thing. While I can see how it can improve accuracy and all that, isn’t it better to take cover?

In: Other

Answer 1

You would need to consider the philosophy and purpose of war at that time. It was basically to show dominance, to settle an issue, like a boxing match today(why stand there in the ring and let someone hit you?). There were/are rules and honor at stake, and the general strategy was to overwhelm the enemy, force a surrender or withdrawal, and win the territory.