The Civil War

"A bite of history a day, all year long."

This volume in the Seven-Day Scholar series brings to life significant moments in our nation's heroic tragedy, the Civil War, and coincides with its 150th anniversary. The book is organized into fifty-two chapters, corresponding to the weeks in a year; and each week has a theme—what ignited the war, Antietam, soldiers' food and drink, the 54th Massachusetts, the Gettysburg Address, Vicksburg, medical care, Lincoln's assassination, why the North won, and many more. Each chapter includes seven related narrative entries, one for every day of the week. These one-page entries, which read like historical fiction, bring to life crucial political decisions, unforgettable people, key battlefield moments, scholarly debates, and struggles on the home front.

The book also explores many little-known episodes, answering questions such as:

--Why did Jefferson and Varina Davis take in a slave as a foster child during the war?
--What were the causes of riots in New York City and Richmond?
--Why was General William Sherman demoted for "insanity"?
--Why did the Union Army turn Robert E. Lee's estate into a cemetery?

Entries also include follow-up resources where curious readers can learn more.

Readers can sweep through the book from beginning to end, or use it as a reference book, periodically dipping in and out of topics they want to explore. This is the perfect book for history buffs, and for those who missed out on learning about this captivating period in American history.

Praise for The Seven Day Scholar: The Civil War

"Through compelling stories and carefully researched interpretations, the authors explain, analyze, and spark curiosity about the Civil War. The unique calendar format invites teachers, students, and families to discuss the multiple causes, the immediate impact, and the long-term legacy of our nation in conflict."
—Cathy Gorn, executive director, National History Day

"This book takes readers on a comprehensive journey through the defining event in American history. Story by story, the authors describe the causes, conduct, and consequences of the Civil War in a text that is rich in content and accessible to scholars, teachers, students, and the general public."
—Brent D. Glass, historian

"A delightfully good volume that provides a clear, concise, and comprehensive presentation of the Civil War in all its complexity. . . . Had only such a volume been available when I was in school!"
—Terrence J. Winschel, historian, Vicksburg National Military Park, and author of Triumph & Defeat: The Vicksburg Campaign

"The Gaffneys provide both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers with an opportunity to learn about this tragic moment in American history."
—Jim Lighthizer, president and CEO, Civil War Trust

"For the reader, it will be easy to comprehend how and why the American Civil War still has an impact on our lives today, and is a perfect companion to take along while visiting one of our treasured battlefield parks."
—John Heiser, ranger and historian, Gettysburg National Military Park