Both sides faced shortages of food, clothing, ammunition, and rifles. They lacked uniforms and eventually chose colors for each side. The Union had a blue uniform and the Confederates had a grey uniform. Most people didn't know how to fight because most of the volunteers were normal people like schoolteachers, farmers, and laborers. They had to learn all these new skills. Many young soldiers were filled with excitement when it came time to fight. The quality of the weapons was also assorted greatly. The Union provided two person tents to their soldiers, however the Confederates did not provide tents, but used the Union's tents when they captured their forts.