Product Description

The Civil War was America’s trial by fire; its battles forged the nation we know today. We’re still fascinated with it – the national reckoning with slavery, the legendary generals and leaders, the epic and bloody clashes of armies, the impact on the daily lives of ordinary people. We visit its battlefields – mostly idyllic patches of countryside near small towns and creeks – where more Americans died in combat than in all other wars combined, except for World War Two. And we tell its stories – of last charges, brother fighting brother, imprisonment and emancipation, and tragedy and rebirth. It is our country’s epic; the story of how we became who we are, and what price we paid.

The Civil War For Dummies is your complete introduction to this seminal conflict. Eschewing tedious historical pondering and military micro–analysis, this fun and information–rich guide gives an accurate overview of the event, from the war’s causes through the fighting to the aftermath. Inside you’ll discover:

• 1850–1860: what led to war
• First Bull Run: illusions lost
• Antietam: the bloodiest day
• The Emancipation Proclamation
• Heroes and goats of each major battle
• Jackson’s Valley Campaign
• Sherman’s March to the Sea
• Surrender at Appomattox
• And much more

Full of sidebars and illustrations, The Civil War For Dummies brings history to life with personalities, factoids, battle reports, strategic maps, and “what ifs.” In addition to the military and political history, you’ll also find out about:

• The African American experience in the war
• Women and the Civil War
• Native Americans and the war
• The life of the common soldier
• Banking and finance systems and the war
• “Firsts” that make the Civil War history’s first modern war
• Civil War food
• Civil War tourism: the best battlefields to visit, and how to get the most out of your trip

Written in an accessible style so you can start reading at any point in the story, The Civil War For Dummies makes a great cornerstone for learning about this violent and compelling chapter of American history.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #74523 in Books
• Published on: 2001-03-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 408 pages

From the Back Cover
Includes maps of major battles and photos

The leaders, the politics, the battles, the soldiers — all brought vividly to life The Civil War changed everything in America. What really happened? Packed with fascinating anecdotes, fun facts, and top ten lists, this friendly reference clues you in on the issues that caused the war and gives you the scoop on the people, politics, and battles that decided its outcome.

Discover how to: Understand the causes of the war Trace the major military campaigns Evaluate the generals and leaders Discover the war's impact on women, African Americans, and American Indians Visit battlefields and see reenactments

The Dummies Way^™ Explanations in plain English "Get in, get out" information Icons and other navigational aids Tear–out cheat sheet Top ten lists A dash of humor and fun

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About the Author
Keith D. Dickson is an associate professor of Military Studies at the Joint Forces Staff College, National Defense University. He earned his Ph.D. in American history at the University of Virginia and is a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army Special Forces (Green Berets).