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A review by blueyorkie
Battle Cry of Freedom: The American Civil War by James M. McPherson
5.0
What any historical work should look like. Devoid of any ideological bias (quite a few French historians should take note), this abundantly documented book (the diversity of sources with which the author had to work is dizzying) depicts a slice of the history of mid-19th century America.
The first 300 pages delve into the political, economic, social, and cultural landscape of the Northern and Southern states, providing a thorough understanding of the differences in mentality between the future Confederate states and those of the future Union. The book skillfully reveals that the schism, with the question of slavery as its visible tip, was seemingly inevitable.
This "introduction" is relatively daunting (you should not hesitate to consult the internet or other works as a supplement alongside reading it) but necessary.
The other 600 pages concern the conflict itself. Better "paced," illustrated by numerous maps with multiple points of view, it is complete because it does not forget the political, economic, and geopolitical questions surrounding this fratricidal war.
Everything is covered, from the maritime blockade to prison camps (including the sinister Andersonville), medical problems, and conflicts between generals from the same camps. Each battle details its strategies, both from the point of view of decision-makers and ordinary soldiers.
This book is quite simply a reference work on the Civil War.
The first 300 pages delve into the political, economic, social, and cultural landscape of the Northern and Southern states, providing a thorough understanding of the differences in mentality between the future Confederate states and those of the future Union. The book skillfully reveals that the schism, with the question of slavery as its visible tip, was seemingly inevitable.
This "introduction" is relatively daunting (you should not hesitate to consult the internet or other works as a supplement alongside reading it) but necessary.
The other 600 pages concern the conflict itself. Better "paced," illustrated by numerous maps with multiple points of view, it is complete because it does not forget the political, economic, and geopolitical questions surrounding this fratricidal war.
Everything is covered, from the maritime blockade to prison camps (including the sinister Andersonville), medical problems, and conflicts between generals from the same camps. Each battle details its strategies, both from the point of view of decision-makers and ordinary soldiers.
This book is quite simply a reference work on the Civil War.