[MKSixer]

Originally Posted by 2000cs

Could have run in one evening if it didn’t have so many ads!

It was OK. I tried to read Grant’s autobiography several years ago and it is the only history/bio I have ever put down without finishing. I thought it would be among the best given that Twain edited/published. Maybe I’ll give it another go.

I think this bit of history is very important for Americans. It not only defined the relationship between the federal and state governments and permanently ended any serious discussion of secession (the feds fought to retain the south, and won. They could have just set up diplomatic relations and let the south go.). It also is a good reminder that any place in America could be come a battlefield, and that war and rebellion are very serious and deadly ideas. At the same time, if you’re willing to start a fight over an idea, you’d better be ready to fight all the way to the conclusion because the costs along the way will be high.

This. All of this.

The lack of historical information and context that the average American has is shameful. I firmly believe that BOTH political parties would shrink in size and the Libertarian party would rise if there was a greater level of understanding of our history. And the number of of "the south will rise again" people still existing is shameful. Certain people still make negative comments when a $50 dollar bill is presented as payment...they are seen as bad luck. I kid you not.

Great post!