Subject
Missouri -- History -- Civil War, 1861-1865 Books
Best books
John McElroy
The Struggle for Missouri
"The Struggle for Missouri" by John McElroy is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the complex political and social dynamics of Missouri during the prelude and early stages of the American Civil War, highlighting the state's pivotal role and the internal conflict between pro-Slavery and anti-Slavery forces. It examines the push and pull of competing ideologies and the characters at the helm of these movements. At the start of the narrative, the author establishes the historical context, discussing the strategic significance of Missouri as a battleground for the contentious issue of slavery. The opening portrays the strong ambitions of Southern leaders to extend the institution of slavery and examines Missouri's unique position, which became a focal point for the broader national conflict. The text introduces key figures like Frank P. Blair, a staunch advocate for emancipation, and Claiborne F. Jackson, a pro-Slavery politician, setting the stage for the intense political struggle that would ensue within the state. Ultimately, it explores the societal divisions and the complexities that led to a fierce civil war, providing a lens through which readers can understand the historical implications of Missouri's struggle.
Galusha Anderson
The story of a border city during the Civil War
"The Story of a Border City During the Civil War" by Galusha Anderson is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the unique experiences of St. Louis, a border city caught in the tumult of the Civil War, detailing the city's social, political, and military dynamics during this turbulent period. Anderson, who lived in St. Louis from 1858 to 1866, aims to provide an unpartisan narrative of the significant events and sentiments among the citizens during the war. At the start of the narrative, Anderson reflects on the city of St. Louis prior to and during the Civil War, describing its physical characteristics, economic conditions, and population demographics. He emphasizes the varied backgrounds of its residents, including a mix of Northern and Southern sentiments regarding slavery and loyalty to the Union. The opening section highlights the growing tensions within the community as the threat of conflict looms, capturing the essence of a border city caught between the ideals of loyalty and disloyalty, ultimately setting the stage for the more detailed accounts of the war's impact on St. Louis that are to follow.
Harrison Trow
Charles W. Quantrell : $b a true history of his guerrilla warfare on the Missouri and Kansas border during the Civil War of 1861 to 1865
"Charles W. Quantrell" by John P. Burch is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This narrative delves into the life and guerrilla warfare led by Charles W. Quantrell on the Missouri and Kansas border during the tumultuous Civil War years from 1861 to 1865. Through the eyes of Captain Harrison Trow, who fought alongside Quantrell, the book explores the complexities of warfare, revenge, and survival in a deeply divided landscape, depicting both the brutal realities of conflict and the personal motivations behind Quantrell's actions. The opening of the narrative introduces Captain Trow, who recounts the genesis of guerrilla warfare in the region, driven by personal vendettas and political strife. Trow details the early life of Quantrell, outlining his transformation from a young man seeking revenge against those who harmed his family, to a leader rallying a group of men against their oppressors. As Trow shares tales of Quantrell’s first skirmishes, readers learn about the intense and often violent interactions between guerrilla fighters and their enemies, illustrating the brutal nature of civil war and the lengths individuals will go to reclaim agency amidst chaos. The text does not shy away from depicting the moral ambiguities and the heartbreaking human cost of such conflicts, setting the stage for deeper explorations of warfare as the narrative progresses.
W. M. (William M.) Leftwich
Martyrdom in Missouri, Volume 1 (of 2) : $b A history of religious proscription, the seizure of churches, and the persecution of ministers of the Gospel, in the state of Missouri during the late Civil War, and under the "Test Oath" of the new Constitution.
"Martyrdom in Missouri, Volume 1" by Rev. W. M. Leftwich is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work chronicles the severe religious persecution and the systematic oppression faced by ministers of the gospel in Missouri during the Civil War era, particularly under the “Test Oath” associated with the new constitution. The book effectively highlights the moral challenges posed by the violent actions taken against religious figures in the tumultuous socio-political landscape of Missouri. The opening of the book sets the stage for a thorough investigation into the religious intolerance that characterized Missouri during and after the Civil War. Leftwich argues that the state uniquely authorized a formal opposition to Christianity, thus leading to various atrocities committed against those who ministered their faith. With vivid illustrations of ministers being robbed, imprisoned, and even murdered for their beliefs, the narrative delves into the motivations behind such hostility. Through detailed accounts, including the legislative failures that allowed these persecutions to flourish, the author seeks to vindicate those who suffered and preserve their legacy for future generations, urging a recognition of their sacrifices in the name of religious liberty.
R. I. (Return Ira) Holcombe
An account of the battle of Wilson's Creek, or Oak Hills, fought between the Union troops, commanded by Gen. N. Lyon and the Southern, or Confederate troops, under command of Gens. McCulloch and Price, on Saturday, August 10, 1861, in Greene county, Missouri
"An Account of the Battle of Wilson's Creek, or Oak Hills" by Holcombe & Adams is a historical account, published in the late 19th century, detailing events of the American Civil War. This work focuses on the battle fought on August 10, 1861, between Union forces led by General Nathaniel Lyon and Confederate troops under Generals McCulloch and Price in Greene County, Missouri. The book presents a comprehensive view of the battle, utilizing authentic sources and narratives from those who participated, memorializing both Union and Confederate troops who fought in the engagement. The beginning of this account sets the stage by describing the key military movements leading up to the Battle of Wilson's Creek. It highlights the division of sentiments in Southwest Missouri during the Civil War, the arrival of Union troops in Springfield, and the subsequent preparations by Confederate forces. The narrative addresses key figures like General Lyon and Colonel Sigel, detailing their actions leading up to the battle and the atmosphere of anticipation and tension. The opening provides a clear foundation of the circumstances that culminated in one of the early and intense confrontations of the Civil War, piquing the reader's interest in the unfolding military strategies and the personal experiences of the soldiers involved.
Thomas Wallace Knox
Camp-Fire and Cotton-Field: Southern Adventure in Time of War. Life with the Union Armies, and Residence on a Louisiana Plantation
"Camp-Fire and Cotton-Field: Southern Adventure in Time of War" by Thomas W. Knox is a historical account written in the late 19th century, specifically in the immediate aftermath of the American Civil War. The book recounts the experiences and observations of the author, who served as a war correspondent and chronicled life with the Union armies while also detailing his time spent on a Louisiana plantation. Knox's narrative likely explores the complexities of war, the social dynamics of the South during this turbulent period, and the personal encounters he faced during his reporting. The opening of the work establishes Knox’s background as a journalist who transitioned from covering the tumultuous political climate in the Rocky Mountains to engaging directly with the military action of the Civil War. He describes the buildup to conflict, people's sentiments towards the war—both North and South—and his personal journey to the battlefront. Notably, he emphasizes moments of tension, such as the heated reactions to the election results in a region divided by loyalties and the growing inevitability of conflict. Knox's observations provide a glimpse into the atmosphere surrounding the impending war and the excitement and apprehension of those directly involved.
William Monks
A History of Southern Missouri and Northern Arkansas Being an Account of the Early Settlements, the Civil War, the Ku-Klux, and Times of Peace
"A History of Southern Missouri and Northern Arkansas" by William Monks is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work focuses on the early settlements in Southern Missouri and Northern Arkansas, highlighting significant events like the Civil War and the rise of local groups such as the Ku-Klux. Monks, sharing his personal experiences, sheds light on the lives and challenges faced by early settlers in these regions. The opening of the narrative introduces William Monks himself, detailing his family's migration from Alabama to Arkansas in the early 1840s. It paints a vivid picture of the early pioneering life, describing the harsh realities of settlement, wildlife abundance, and the use of pelts and honey as currency. Monks emphasizes the cooperative spirit among early settlers, the establishment of communities, and the gradual improvements in education and social structures. The introduction sets the stage for a detailed exploration of the cultural and historical developments in this area, establishing Monks as both a participant and a chronicler of these transformative times.
Henry Clay Bruce
The New Man: Twenty-nine years a slave, twenty-nine years a free man
"“The New Man: Twenty-nine Years a Slave, Twenty-nine Years a Free Man” by H. C. Bruce is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book recounts the author's personal experiences and reflections on slavery, detailing both the hardships faced by enslaved individuals and the diverse treatment they received from their masters. As someone who lived through nearly three decades of enslavement before gaining freedom, Bruce presents a nuanced perspective on slavery and its effects on both the enslaved and their masters." The opening of the book introduces the author's intent to provide an impartial account of slavery based on his own life experiences. He emphasizes that not all masters were cruel and not all slaves suffered equally, noting the existence of both kind and harsh masters. Bruce shares insights into the varying behaviors and characteristics among slaves, emphasizing the impact of bloodlines on their attitudes. He illustrates his upbringing in slavery, touching on significant events and relationships that shaped his life, including moments of joy and danger during his childhood. As he begins to recount specific experiences, he sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the complexities surrounding the institution of slavery and its aftermath.
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