The readings the monograph For Cause and Comrades by James McPherson as well as the course content for weeks twelve and thirteen will compose the research material for this exam. Below are three central historical questions that you will need to analyze in your notes for this week’s readings. I recommend covering the chapter readings prior to engaging the historical documents in our week thirteen course content.
Central Historical Questions:
1) How did the high rate of casualties sustained by both sides during the fighting affect public support for the war? How did this support differ between Northern and Southern Communities?
2) How did the inclusion of African-American soldiers into the Union Army coupled with the passage of the Emancipation Proclamation alter Northern soldiers attitudes regarding slavery? What effect did this have on the presidential election of 1864?
3) Following the surrender of Robert E. Lee’s forces at Appomattox Court House in 1865, is there evidence that the war’s end reunified the nation culturally and socially or was America still, to a degree, a divided nation?
Below is a description of your essay assignment:
Prompt: Historians debate whether slavery was the central issue that led to the Civil War. Using the McPherson Reader and the text, examine both sides of this issue and present your historical perception. Argue your thesis with support from your readings of the Civil War.
Length: Three to four pages double spaced with in text citations and a work cited page.
Restrictions: No outside sources may be used. You must use solely the McPherson reader and the textbook. The dominate portion of your research and references must come from the McPherson reader.
Citation Format: MLA/APA
