A Southern Moderate in Radical Times

A SOUTHERN MODERATE IN RADICAL TIMES offers a comprehensive and critical appraisal of one of the South's more famous dissenters, Henry Washington Hilliard. Against the backdrop of one of the most turbulent periods in American history, the study explores the ideological and political journey of a southern politician whose opposition to secession placed him at odds with many of his peers in the South's elite class. Durham weaves threads of American legal, social, and diplomatic history to tell the story of a fascinating man who, living during a time of unrestrained destruction as well as seemingly endless possibilities, consistently focused on the positive elements in society, even as forces beyond his control shaped his destiny. Hilliard was a three-term congressman from Alabama, as well as a professor, attorney, diplomat, minister, soldier, and author. Modeling himself on the ideal of the erudite statesman and celebrated orator, his career spanned more than six decades.

David I. Durham is curator of archival collections at the University of Alabama School of Law and teaches in the history department at the University of Alabama.