It doesn’t take long when reading the letters and diaries of Civil War soldiers to appreciate just how fragile the bonds are that connect us to the people we love.
First, I want to thank you for upgrading to a paid subscription. It's great to have you on board. As a paid subscriber you will have access to upcoming live chats, one of which will focus on my favorite books about Reconstruction. But for now, let me suggest two books for you. Both are very readable.
Douglas Egerton, The Wars of Reconstruction
Philip Dray, Capitol Men
Both should be available in paperback. Happy reading.
That first quote struck a chord with me because it reminded me of what I valued about reenacting. The best parts were--away from daily life--we could overcome small challenges and create a sense of brotherhood in adversity... or, "adversity." I've been in that tent with a chugging chimney, and have made a Christmas pudding in a boiler over a fire. It's the best.
That second quote reminds me why reenacting will always have been, and always will be, an fatally compromised interpretation of the past.
Very nice essay. I think one of the historian’s roles is to help people of the present see the past through the eyes of the people of the past. You are good at doing that.
I’ve been to the memorial to Shaw and the 54th Massachusetts in Boston. It’s a moving and fitting memorial to a brave group of patriots. Thank you for this essay, and Happy Thanksgiving to you.
It seems to me that Civil War memory figures bigger in American memory than many realize. And it seems to me that if Kevin Levin stuck only with the meat and potatoes of Civil War memory, his contributions would still be valuable. But he goes beyond that. He brings in multiple dimensions. He offers immense scope. This post is a reminder of that. I’m thankful for it.
What books do you recommend on Reconstruction? Thanks
Hi Sidney,
First, I want to thank you for upgrading to a paid subscription. It's great to have you on board. As a paid subscriber you will have access to upcoming live chats, one of which will focus on my favorite books about Reconstruction. But for now, let me suggest two books for you. Both are very readable.
Douglas Egerton, The Wars of Reconstruction
Philip Dray, Capitol Men
Both should be available in paperback. Happy reading.
Thank you for giving me cause to reflect and appreciate the lives of these heroes.
Thank you for such a beautifully poignant reflection on the Civil War, and one of my heroes, Robert Gould Shaw.
That first quote struck a chord with me because it reminded me of what I valued about reenacting. The best parts were--away from daily life--we could overcome small challenges and create a sense of brotherhood in adversity... or, "adversity." I've been in that tent with a chugging chimney, and have made a Christmas pudding in a boiler over a fire. It's the best.
That second quote reminds me why reenacting will always have been, and always will be, an fatally compromised interpretation of the past.
Thanks for the post.
Very nice essay. I think one of the historian’s roles is to help people of the present see the past through the eyes of the people of the past. You are good at doing that.
I’ve been to the memorial to Shaw and the 54th Massachusetts in Boston. It’s a moving and fitting memorial to a brave group of patriots. Thank you for this essay, and Happy Thanksgiving to you.
Excellent Kevin. Happy Thanksgiving to you.
Shaw and many of his compatriots were true heroes. They gave "the last full measure". Thanks for this reflection.
It seems to me that Civil War memory figures bigger in American memory than many realize. And it seems to me that if Kevin Levin stuck only with the meat and potatoes of Civil War memory, his contributions would still be valuable. But he goes beyond that. He brings in multiple dimensions. He offers immense scope. This post is a reminder of that. I’m thankful for it.
Thank you for sharing!
A perfect reflection for the day.
Thank you for all you do! Seems this time of year can be both joyful and melancholy. I appreciate you.
Thanks for a wonderful message for all who have no family with whom to celebrate the day.