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

If you are defending a fixed position, sure. But if you have guns that aren’t very accurate and have a short effective range, then you don’t have any choice but to advance upon the enemy in straight lines. You took what cover you could and, when it was available, they did.