Gatling gun heralded a new age

The Gatling gun, first patented in 1862, wasn't fully mechanical. Someone had to crank it by hand, but it was a step toward the machine gun. In an era of warfare remembered for muskets and bayonets, the Gatling gun was a terrifying leap forward. Union Maj. Gen. Benjamin Butler purchased a dozen for his forces and used them fighting near Petersburg, Va.  • Article