Summary:
The book provides a detailed account of the early years of the American Civil War, from the secession crisis and the first shots at Fort Sumter to the significant battles and political maneuvers leading up to the Battle of Perryville. It combines military history with biographical sketches and personal anecdotes to bring the era to life.
Key points:
1. Civil War Outbreak: The book starts with South Carolina's secession and Fort Sumter's attack, highlighting the North-South differences, including slavery, that led to the war.
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