The Oxford History of the United States: Battle Cry of Freedom

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Filled with fresh interpretations and information, this work will undoubtedly become the standard one-volume history of the Civil War. The fast-paced narrative integrates the political, social, and military events from the Mexican War to Appomattox. It vividly recounts key episodes leading up to the Civil War, including the Dred Scott decision, the Lincoln-Douglas debates, and John Brown's raid on Harper's Ferry. The chronicle of the war itself covers battles, strategic maneuvers, politics, and personalities. Notable insights include new perspectives on the slavery expansion issue in the 1850s, the origins of the Republican Party, the causes of secession, and internal dissent in both the North and South. The title reflects the sentiments that shaped Northern and Southern views: the South's secession was rooted in a quest for self-determination, while the North defended the Union as a foundation of American liberty. Ultimately, the North confronted the war's underlying cause—slavery—and adopted emancipation as a second war aim. This "new birth of freedom," as Lincoln termed it, represents the proud legacy of America's bloodiest conflict. This authoritative volume clarifies the vast and complex "second American Revolution" known as the Civil War, a transformative event that expanded our heritage of liberty.