Battle Cry of Freedom

by James McPherson
Battle Cry of Freedom cover
Good Books rating 4.25
History, Political, Military, Adventure
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  • ID: 8808
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2025-12-22
  • ISBN: 9780199726585
  • Publisher: Oxford University Press
  • Published: 2003-12-11
  • Reviews: 4

Battle Cry of Freedom is a comprehensive and engaging history of the Civil War, offering new interpretations and debunking old myths. James McPherson's fast-paced narrative integrates political, social, and military events, providing a vivid account of the war's origins and its transformative impact on the nation. The book delves into key events like the Dred Scott decision, the Lincoln-Douglas debates, and John Brown's raid, as well as the strategic maneuvers and battles that defined the war. /n/n McPherson's analysis extends to the underlying causes of the war, including the issue of slavery expansion and the origins of the Republican Party, and explores the internal dissent and anti-war opposition in both the North and the South. The book's title reflects the contrasting views of freedom held by the North and the South, ultimately highlighting the Union's victory and the emancipation of slaves as the proudest legacy of the conflict.

Reviews
The New York Times · 2025-12-22
engaging 4.00

The book is praised for its literary skill and thorough research. It is seen as a significant contribution to the understanding of the Civil War era.

The reviewer from The New York Times emphasizes the literary skill of James M. McPherson, noting that it enhances the book's historical narrative. They appreciate the thorough research and the well-reasoned arguments presented, making it a valuable addition to the historical literature on the Civil War. The reviewer also highlights the book's ability to engage readers with its compelling storytelling. Overall, it is considered a must-read for history enthusiasts.

Quick quotes

    It is easier work to summarize James M. McPherson's many merits as a historian. Of these the greatest is surely his literary skill.

    It shows in little things that make the book a pleasure to read and a valuable resource for understanding the Civil War era.

    The book's literary skill and thorough research make it a significant contribution to the understanding of the Civil War.

Stuart Ellis Gorman · 2023-02-16
excellent 4.50

This book is considered one of the best histories of the American Civil War. It is praised for its comprehensive and well-researched narrative.

The reviewer highlights that this book is a standout in the field of Civil War history. They appreciate the depth of research and the engaging narrative style, which makes the complex history accessible and compelling. The book is noted for its thorough coverage of the conflict, providing a comprehensive understanding of the era. The reviewer also mentions that the literary skill of the author shines through, making it a pleasure to read.

Quick quotes

    This single volume history of the American Civil War remains one of, of not the, best histories of the conflict as a whole.

    The near 1000 page masterpiece by James McPherson delivers a comprehensive, thoroughly researched, well reasoned and gripping story of the American Civil War.

    It is easier work to summarize James M. McPherson's many merits as a historian. Of these the greatest is surely his literary skill.

Reddit - r/CIVILWAR · 2023-02-10
great 4.00

The book is praised for its depth and breadth, offering a comprehensive view of the Civil War. It is noted for its thorough research and engaging narrative.

The reviewer on Reddit appreciates the extensive coverage and detailed research presented in the book. They acknowledge that while other authors like Foote and Catton may be more engaging, McPherson's effort in detailing every aspect of the war is commendable. The book is seen as a significant contribution to Civil War literature, providing a thorough understanding of the era. The reviewer also notes that the book's traditional approach to history is both its strength and its charm.

Quick quotes

    The depth and breath of the book is amazing.

    Yes, Foote is more engaging. Yes, Catton did it first. But man, the effort McPherson makes in dotting every t and crossing every i is just incredible.

    A thoroughly enjoyable if ostensibly quite old fashioned book of narrative history.

CW Memory · 2013-10-20
excellent 4.50

The book is praised for its superb historical account of the Civil War. It is noted for its excellent narrative and thorough research.

The reviewer from CW Memory highlights the book's superb historical account of the Civil War, noting its excellent narrative and thorough research. They appreciate the book's ability to provide a comprehensive understanding of the war years, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in the subject. The reviewer also mentions that the book's traditional approach to history is both its strength and its charm, providing a detailed and engaging narrative that is both informative and enjoyable to read.

Quick quotes

    I found the history to be superb on at least three levels.

    First, 'Battle Cry' comes across as an excellent straight history of the war years.

    MacPherson self consciously takes quite a traditional approach, but it works.

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