The Partisan Imperative: The Dynamics of American Politics Before the Civil War - Softcover

Silbey, Joel H.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0195041577 ISBN 13: 9780195041576

Publisher: Oxford University Press, 1987

Synopsis

In this provocative reinterpretation of American politics before the Civil War, Joel Silbey argues that local issues, ethnic and religious considerations, and the power of the national political parties were even more important than slavery in animating the political life of the era. He traces the tensions that divided the nation in this critical period and offers intriguing explanations for how and why they developed. These essays significantly contribute to the existing perspectives on the Civil War and also pave the way for new approaches to understanding a vital time in American history.

About this title

About the Author:

Joel H. Silbey, Professor of History, Cornell University.

Review:

"In this endeavor [Silbey] has succeeded admirably....The presentation of the articles and essays is well designed....Well suited for use in courses on the development of American political parties and American history before the Civil War."--Teaching History

"A masterly accomplishment that future historians of the era will have to rely on in building their own interpretations."--Lee Benson, University of Pennsylvania

"Broadly informed, powerfully argued, and filled with keen insights about the history and historiography of antebellum politics."--Michael F. Holt, University of Virginia

"Impressive...sophisticated and subtle."--Daniel W. Howe, University of California, Los Angeles

About this edition

• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Publication date: 1987
• ISBN 10: 0195041577
• ISBN 13: 9780195041576
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 256