Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era

Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era cover
Good Books rating 4.2
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Technical
  • ID: 6657
  • Added: 2025-11-27
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9780199726585
  • Publisher: Oxford University Press
  • Published: 2003-12-11
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 2

Battle Cry of Freedom is a meticulously researched and engaging narrative that brings to life the pivotal events leading up to and during the Civil War. James McPherson's work integrates the political, social, and military aspects of the conflict, providing a fresh perspective on the causes of secession, the origins of the Republican Party, and the strategic maneuvering on both sides. The book also delves into the internal dissent and anti-war opposition in the North and the South, offering new insights into the reasons for the Union's victory. /n/n The title refers to the sentiments that informed both the Northern and Southern views of the conflict, highlighting the complex interplay of freedom and self-determination. McPherson's narrative is packed with drama and analytical insight, making it a must-read for anyone interested in American history. The book's authoritative volume makes sense of the vast and confusing 'second American Revolution' that transformed a nation and expanded our heritage of liberty.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2025-11-27
excellent 4.40

The book is widely praised as the best single-volume history of the American Civil War. Its virtues far outnumber its flaws, making it a must-read for history enthusiasts.

This reviewer considers the book to be one of the best single-volume histories of the Civil War, highlighting its numerous virtues. They appreciate the depth of research and the engaging narrative that brings the era to life. The book is seen as a comprehensive and insightful look into the Civil War, making it a valuable addition to any history lover's collection. The reviewer also notes that the book's strengths far outweigh any minor shortcomings, making it a must-read.


Quick quotes

    Widely praised as the best single volume history of the American Civil War.

    Its virtues far outnumber its flaws.

    A must-read for history enthusiasts.

Johns Hopkins University Press · JL Wakelyn · 1988-01-01
valuable 4.00

The book is a valuable one-volume synthesis of the Civil War era, offering an interesting thesis. It is praised for its comprehensive and insightful analysis.

JL Wakelyn finds the book to be a valuable synthesis of the Civil War era, appreciating its comprehensive and insightful analysis. They highlight the interesting thesis presented by the author, which adds depth to the understanding of the era. The reviewer notes that the book provides a clear and engaging narrative, making it a valuable resource for those interested in the Civil War. The book's strengths lie in its ability to present complex information in an accessible and engaging manner.


Quick quotes

    James M. McPherson has written a valuable one-volume synthesis of—and has offered an interesting thesis on—the American Civil War era.

    It is praised for its comprehensive and insightful analysis.

    The book provides a clear and engaging narrative.

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