Encyclopedia of the American Civil War by David S. Heidler and Jeanne T. Heidler

This multi-volume encyclopedia is considered a definitive reference for students, historians, and general readers interested in the American Civil War. It goes beyond a simple chronology of battles, offering a holistic view of the conflict. The entries are organized alphabetically and range from short biographies of major and minor figures to longer essays on significant battles, military strategy, and social, political, and cultural developments.

Key features of the encyclopedia include:

• Broad Scope: It covers not only military history but also the political, diplomatic, and social dimensions of the war. Topics include slavery, states’ rights, secession, emancipation, the role of women, African Americans, and immigrants, as well as press coverage and public opinion.
• Rich Content: The volumes are filled with over 500 illustrations, 75 maps, and 250 primary source documents. These documents—which include speeches, legislation, and eyewitness reports—provide an immediate connection to the period.
• Scholarly Rigor: The entries are written by a large body of respected Civil War scholars and include bibliographies for further reading, making it a valuable resource for research.
• Accessibility: Despite its scholarly nature, the writing is clear and accessible to a wide audience, from students to seasoned history buffs.

Overall, the encyclopedia is a monumental work that brings together a vast amount of information into a single, well-organized, and authoritative set.