Includes bibliographical references (pages 319-368) and index.
Contents:
Prologue. In Jackson's time -- I met nullification at its threshold -- The freshmen -- The setting sun -- ... and Tyler, too -- War in Mexico! -- The 30th Congress -- A final settlement -- A hell of a storm -- The final election of the old America -- General Jackson is dead! -- The first and only choice of the Republicans of Illinois -- A startling tide of reckless fanaticism -- Five against Lincoln -- The gathering storm -- The tug has to come -- The last winter of peace -- That all will yet be well -- Home again -- Breakfast at Fort Sumter -- The meeting that never was -- The border states -- Twilight at Wheatland, dawn at Manassas -- To lose Kentucky is nearly the same as to lose the whole game -- Capture on the high seas -- The bottom is out of the tub -- Greenbacks and ironclads -- Any explanations which you may offer would be acceptable -- West and east -- The very vortex of hell -- Destroy the rebel army, if possible -- A continuation of war by other means -- A storm of lead -- If my name ever goes into history, it will be for this act -- We are ruined -- The brave men, living and dead -- The Fourth of July -- A new birth of freedom -- Our old home -- Those not skinning can hold a leg -- Not unworthy to remain in my present position -- The last full measure -- Epilogue. Do not despair of the republic.
Summary:
Tells the story of how five ex-presidents--for and against Abraham Lincoln (but mostly against)--maneuvered, seceded, plotted, advised and aided during the Civil War while Lincoln navigated the minefield they created.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.