Was Gettysburg a tactical success; or was the outcome determined by a far more mundane factor: access to fresh water? How did the need to spread information about the dead and wounded give rise to the U.S. Postal Service? Did President Lincoln really age so dramatically during the course of the war; or was a rare disease to blame for the shocking difference in images of him from before and during the war? From overlooked elements; such as the role of weather; health; and high emotions; to the world-changing effect of the rise of female workers; to the many "firsts" including the introduction of standard time; pre-sized clothing; canned goods; toilets; and Santa Claus; The Untold Civil War reveals new facets of a seemingly well-known slice of American history; just in time to commemorate its 150th anniversary. Dramatically illustrated with archival images and objects and compelling contemporary photography; this book delivers a surprise on every page: from precious personal mementos to forgotten battle sites; from newly recovered glass-plate negatives that reveal long-obscured photographic details to long-lost documents; this book adds a new dimension to our understanding of the Civil War and is a must-have for anyone with an interest in American history. Six thematic chapters—such as "Characters;" "Connections;" and "A War of Firsts"—present a short introductory essay followed by approximately 30 self-contained stories that detail surprising; little-known; and fresh aspects of the war. Themes both large and small will be explored and contextualized; painting a fascinating portrait of our national character and showcasing the enduring impact of the Civil War.
#1932848 in Books 2004-09-28 2004-09-28Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.50 x 1.25 x 5.50l; .0 #File Name: 0142196320528 pages
Review
5 of 5 people found the following review helpful. Jewish History - a different perspectiveBy New York LonghornThis is not a straight dry history book. It is an anthropological account of a people who have survived despite all odds. The author delves into the intellectual; sociological and economical reasons as he goes around the globe to tell the story. There have been better histories told about the Jews of Eastern Europe but not necessarily from this perspective. However; the accounts of Jews in Ethiopia; China; Uzbekistan; to name a few are eye opening. The Bible calls the Israelites a stiff-necked people. Perhaps; without realizing it; the author explains that in essence; this is the reason for Jewish suvival through the ages. No matter the tyrant; king; oppression; opportunity; the Jewish people kept to the principles of their faith. This is a good read.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Outstanding one volume history of the Jewish peopleBy Ron DolginA blend of broad based scientific; social and cultural history; including written accounts. Dr. Konner used a very readable; informative style. At the same time; with his documentation and in depth analysis; we have an authoritative account of the Jewish people. Contrary to current propaganda; Jews lived in Israel pretty much continuously since the bronze age. How to account for Jewish high achievement. An early Egyptian Pharaoh boasts of ending the Israelites. Early Chinese and Indian Jewish centers. Konner elaborates themes of Jewish lives across time; many places and offers a coherent account. Thankfully; his work is readable without slick and superficial constructions.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. A Neat BookBy Steven K.What an insightful historically researched document. My only concern is the mention of Queen Ester winning a beauty contest. A beauty contest is not mentioned in the Book of Ester. What is said is the king summoned all the virgins and after a year's preparation they were ready for him to have his way with them. Beauty pageant aside; the author does a great job analyzing the history of the Jews based upon factual evidence.
