American Civil War

Coinciding with the 150th anniversary of the start of the Civil War, American Civil War: The Essential Reference Guide offers an accessible, single-volume source on the conflict that helped define the American nation. Enhanced by contemporary illustrations and documents, the guide will promote a nuanced understanding of the events, personalities, and issues related to the war and its aftermath. In addition to an A-Z encyclopedia of major leaders, events, and issues, the work includes a comprehensive overview essay on the war, plus separate essays by a prominent Civil War historian on its causes and consequences. Perspective essays tackle such widely debated issues as the primary cause of the confederate defeat and will inspire readers to exercise critical thinking skills. Biographies of military and political leaders provide insights about those who played major roles in the conflict, while entries on key battles showcase the strategies of both sides as they struggled to emerge victorious.