Battle Cry of Freedom

The Civil War Era

By: James M. McPherson

Narrated by: Jonathan Davis

James M. McPherson, professor emeritus of U.S. history at Princeton, is one of the foremost scholars of the Civil War. In this informative and meticulously researched masterpiece, he clarifies the differing ways of life and philosophy that led to this shattering conflict.  

Abraham Lincoln wondered whether in a free government the minority have the right to break up the government. Jefferson Davis felt forced to take up arms to guarantee his states rights. McPherson merges the words of these men and other political luminaries, housewives, and soldiers from both armies with his own concise analysis of the war to create a story as compelling as any novel.  

Battle Cry of Freedom vividly traces how a new nation was forged when a war both sides were sure would amount to little dragged for four years and cost more American lives than all other wars combined. Narrator Jonathan Davis powerful reading brings to life the many voices of the Civil War.

©2003 James Macpherson (P)2020 Recorded Books, Inc.

The Civil War Explained In Depth

I picked up this book when I visited the Gettysburg Battlefield last year. It was designated as a “Staff Recommendation”. I’m thrilled I bought it. There was so much detail, not just about the battles, and the military personalities that played key roles in the Civil War, but it also provided detailed accounts of the social, economic and political landscape leading up to the war. This is a must-read for anyone looking to understand what led to the Civil War and the impacts of the war even today.

One of my favorite books ever

I'm not a huge civil war buff, but this book is so expertly written and interesting, the 40 hours ends up feeling like it's too short. The author perfectly explains the many, many nuances of the politics and events of the time, and beautifully sets the stage for the war with everything that led up to it. He provides a thorough background for people not well versed in the history, but also digs into the details for people who might already know about the events. The narration and audio quality are also great. Can't recommend it enough

Very good overall

This book is a beast. Very thorough and complete review. The narrator is quite slow, could listen at 2.0 speed without issue.

The Best Single Volume Treatment of the Civil War

Good Scholarship, broad focus, investigates multiple explanations for events from different perspectives.

Must Read.

I was turned onto this book by workers at the bookstore at the battlefield of Fredericksburg. Their recommendation was outstanding. Anyone interested in this history should read this book. Absolutely worth it.

exceptional !

A most complete and comprehensive work, portrayed in a articulate and poignant manner !

Masterful !