Synopses & Reviews
This book, in the Seminar Studies in History series, is an up-to-date synthesis of the vast literature which the subject has generated. Books in this Seminar Studies in History series bridge the gap between textbook and specialist survey and consists of a brief "Introduction" and/or "Background" to the subject followed by a substantial and authoritative section of "Analysis" focusing on the main themes and issues. There is a succinct "Assessment" of the subject, a generous selection of "Documents" and a detailed bibliography. Although the military side is covered in the book, this is by no means just a blow-by-blow account of the war. Equal attention is given to the economy, society (including the role of women) and politics - both in the Union and the Confederacy. In the final assessment chapter emancipation (and its social consequences) and wartime reconstruction are both explored. The book is supported by a fascinating collection of documents, a chronology of the main events, and a guide to the main characters. Readers interested in American history of the American Civil war.
Synopsis
The American Civil War caused upheaval and massive private bereavement, but the years 1861-1865 also defined a great nation.
This book provides a concise introduction to events from the secession to the end of the war. It focuses on
# the military progress of the war
# Union and Confederate politics
# social change - particularly the emancipation of North American slaves
The social history associated with the war is dealt with alongside the familiar military and political events. This inclusive approach allows the reader to consider equally the history of men and women, blacks and whites in the conflict. It deals with both the Union and the Confederacy, integrating the latest literature on the war and society into a clear account. The book concludes with an assessment of emancipation, the rebuilding of the economy, and the war's consequences.
An array of primary documents supports the text, together with a chronology, glossary and Who's Who guide to key figures.
REID MITCHELL taught at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County and is author of 'Civil War Soldiers'.
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. 125-129) and index.
Table of Contents
I. BACKGROUND. 1. Introduction: The Problem. 2. Origins of the Civil War.
II. ANALYSIS. 3. The War, 1861-62.
4. The Union Homefront.
5. The South and the Confederacy.
6. War and Politics, 1863-64.
7. A More Perfect Union?
III. ASSESSMENT. 8. Emancipation and Reconstruction.
IV. DOCUMENTS.