A Short History of the Civil War

The Civil War was America's most devastating conflict, and one that nearly ended the experiment in democracy known as the United States. In A Short History of the Civil War, noted historian James L. Stokesbury provides the definitive, one-volume history of this pivotal conflict that continues to exert a powerful grip on the American psyche.

A Short History of the Civil War discusses important military campaigns, significant battles and historical highlights, as well as political and economic factors that contributed to the war. Stokesbury also analyses new technologies of the era, including advances in weaponry and the legendary ironclad ships. This well-researched and readable book brings to life Generals Grant, Lee, and McClellan, as well as the many unsung heroes of this great struggle between the Union and the Confederacy.

James L. Stokesbury is the author of A Short History of World War I, A Short History of World War II, A Short History of the Korean War, and A Short History of the American Revolution. Before his death in 1995 he was a professor of history at Acadia University in Nova Scotia, Canada.

"Perceptive and concise ... Stokesbury describes the Civil War as America's defining experience both for the causes involved and for the tremendous human and material costs. -- Publishers Weekly