�The Civil War violently destroyed the decentralized federal system of the Founders and opened a way for the vast centralized empire of today. To legitimate this revolutionary change, Americans have been taught that secession was unconstitutional, that the South seceded to protect slavery and that the North invaded to emancipate slaves. Charles Adams, a northern historian, argues persuasively that these propositions are false. Adams claims that the war was about what most wars are fought over: control of territory, resources, and revenue. To many this book will be disturbing; to others it will be breath of fresh air. The first step in healing the factual historical memory imposed on all Americans by the Civil War is to face the hard truths that Adams brings into focus. Having read this book, I can no longer, with ease, recite the �Gettysburg Address� or sing the �Battle Hymn of the Republic.�
- Donald Livingston, Emory University |
