Broke by the War is a collection of more than 140 letters written between 1852 and 1857 by South Carolina slave trader A. J. McElveen to his employer Z. B. Oakes; a prosperous Charleston broker. The correspondence provides an intimate look into the world of slave trading; from the economic aspects of prices; shipping; supply sources; and financing to the impact on those involved; including the breakup of slave families; the pursuit of runaways; and the various roles played by doctors; lawyers; bankers; and planters in this abominable business. Edited and introduced by Edmund L. Drago; McElveen's letters give the modern reader an opportunity to view Old South slave trading through the eyes of a representative participant. As Drago recounts; the Civil War decimated McElveen's finances and left him; as described years later by a credit investigator; simply as "broke by the war--old man."
#137418 in Books 2016-09-13 2016-09-13Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 10.00 x 1.00 x 6.88l; .0 #File Name: 1568585551288 pages
Review
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. It's a great book that humanizes individuals in a movement that has ...By Matthew BairdIt's a great book that humanizes individuals in a movement that has (and had) a terribly negative reputation. I've taken to leaving it on my coffee table and choosing an entry to read at random while sitting on my couch with my morning caffeine. At the very least; it's a great way to keep unwelcome relatives out of the house.3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy vanaA true treasure of personal stories andreview of the history of that time.3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Beautiful photos and stories that give an inspiring back drop ...By Aaron L.Beautiful photos and stories that give an inspiring back drop to an amazing time. So interesting to read the stories from the foot soldiers of the Black Panthers. I highly recommend this book.
