Battle Cry of Freedom : Civil War Era - Softcover

James M McPherson

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0140125183 ISBN 13: 9780140125184

Publisher: Penguin Books, 1990

Synopsis

This text presents a history of the American Civil War. It starts with an account of the years before the civil war and its causes - placing slavery firmly back in the centre stage - before discussing the war, the two sides, the international dimension, the position and role of the free blacks and slaves, to its outcome, the end of the war and reconstruction.

About this title

Review:

Published in 1988 to universal acclaim, this single-volume treatment of the Civil War quickly became recognized as the new standard in its field. James M. McPherson, who won the Pulitzer Prize for this book, impressively combines a brisk writing style with an admirable thoroughness. He covers the military aspects of the war in all of the necessary detail, and also provides a helpful framework describing the complex economic, political, and social forces behind the conflict. Perhaps more than any other book, this one belongs on the bookshelf of every Civil War buff.

From the Publisher:

BATTLE CRY OF FREEDOM by James M. McPherson is the best single volume history of the American Civil War. McPherson first describes the economic, social, political, and technological changes that occurred in the United States in the years before the conflict. Then, he carefully and lucidly describes the political environment in America that leads to the election of Abraham Lincoln. This election precipitated the seccession of 7 and ultimately 11 southern states. The seccession debate within the southern governments is explained fully. The war itself is described primarily in strategic terms, but with clear descriptions of the human costs of the conflict.
Anyone who wishes to understand this period of American history must read BATTLE CRY OF FREEDOM.

Randy Hickernell, Ballantine Sales Rep

About this edition

• Publisher: Penguin Books
• Publication date: 1990
• ISBN 10: 0140125183
• ISBN 13: 9780140125184
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 952