This is the book that chronicles the American Civil War from the point of view of those who experienced our nation's deadliest conflagration first-hand. Using hundreds of first-person accounts from soldiers, politicians, slaves, and civilians, the 854-page tome begins with a journalist's account of the hysteria surrounding Lincoln's nomination for President in 1860: "there is nothing that politicians like better than a crisis." A Charleston resident reveals the opening move of the conflict at Fort Sumter by recounting how South Carolina's Governor Manning bowed to her and announced "Madam, your country is invaded." A series of letters between Confederate General James Longstreet and his subordinates reveal the tactics and planning behind General Pickett's famous charge at Gettysburg while a woman enduring Grant's gunboat siege of Vicksburg writes of seeking shelter: "cave-digging has become a regular experience." General Joshua Chamberlain of Maine describes the parade of Confederate infantry during the formal surrender at Appomattox: "...it is by miracles we have lived to see this day,--any of us standing here." Hardcover. 11" H x 9" W x 2 1/2" D. (2 lbs.)