AMERICAN ILIAD The Story of the Civil War

This concise but comprehensive history reflects a synthesis of the major writings on the war, as refined and focused through Professor Roland's own research and interpretation. This is the story of the war with the emphasis on the military action, that element which distinguishes war from all other human activities. Accounts of the major political, economic, diplomatic, social, and cultural developments of the epoch are covered; approximately half of the book is devoted to them. But these discussions are woven into the central narrative in a manner designed to show their role in the war effort itself.

"Roland wonderfully synthesizes the work and study of generations to produce a sharp and incisive study that will last."--William C. Davis

"An excellent display of clear, succinct prose. . . . Masterfully groups the myriad of battles into a series of campaigns that introduce all the key commanders and strategic decisions."--North Carolina Historical Review

"As an introduction, you couldn't ask for a better place to start, and for the veteran Civil War reader there are new questions to ponder."--Richmond Times-Dispatch

"Provides a perspective, depth, and insight remarkable for a book of its size and scope."--Florida Historical Quarterly

"The best concise narrative of the war currently available."--Journal of Mississippi History

"New buffs will find this probably the best single volume with which to begin their journey into the war. Teachers will find it a splendid introductory textbook."--Journal of Southern History