American Civil War: Facts and Fictions

by James R. Hedtke

Overview

This book debunks popular myths and misconceptions about the American Civil War through primary source documents and shows how misinformation can become so widespread.

The American Civil War deeply divided the nation and was a pivotal point in American history. The acrimony and bitterness of this four-year struggle, coupled with its importance to the fabric of American life, has resulted in the development and perpetuation of many myths about the conflict.

This work separates myth from reality. The author examines 10 popular myths about the war, each of which is examined in terms of its origins and how it became ensconced in the American memory. It uses primary sources to explain the evolution of the myths and to inform the reader about what really happened, providing a unique quality to this work. Moreover, the book not only explains the flaws in the myth but encourages the reader to further investigate each of the topics.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9798216045564
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Publishing
Publication date:	08/17/2018
Series:	Historical Facts and Fictions
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	248
File size:	676 KB
Age Range:	7 - 17 Years

About the Author

James R. Hedtke, PhD, is professor of history and political science at Cabrini University, Radnor, PA, where he has taught for 45 years.
James R. Hedtke, PhD, is professor of history and political science at Cabrini University, Radnor, PA, where he has taught for 45 years.

Table of Contents

Preface
Acknowledgments
Introduction
1. The Main Reason the Southern States Seceded from the Union Was States' Rights
2. Edmund Ruffin Fired the First Shot at Fort Sumter
3. Black Regiments Fought in Combat for the Confederate States of America
4. There Were No Female Combat Soldiers in the Civil War
5. Lincoln Freed the Slaves
6. The Gettysburg Address Was Written on a Train
7. Grant Was a Butcher
8. Civil War Medicine Was Barbaric
9. Freed Slaves Were Promised 40 Acres and a Mule
10. Lincoln's Assassination Was the Result of a Conspiracy
Bibliography
Index

Editorial Reviews

Hedtke writes with scope and clarity throughout, his selection of primary sources lending his arguments an extra level of credibility, enabling him to be direct without being preachy. Clearly written and judiciously compiled,American Civil War is a welcome addition to any general research collection.” —ARBA

From the Publisher