Which way to turn? Recent directions in writing about the American Civil War

Abstract

ABSTRACT The historiography of the US Civil War during the twenty-first century has pursued four directions or 'turns' - the operational, strategic, cultural and the 'dark'. The latter underlines the human cost of the war, death, disfigurement and suffering. It has adopted the British language of commemoration of the First World War in stressing the 'futility' of war. The essay explores the context of these 'turns' and assesses three significant contributions to the field which exemplify their strengths and weaknesses. The article contends that war is a multifaceted activity and is primarily about human beings. The effects of war on individuals and their combined influence on the culture of societies is key to understanding the nature of war. Consequently, the article argues against discussing the US Civil War through the medium of exclusive categories. Alternative approaches from different perspectives and directions should be encouraged. Necessity does not require 'turning' down one path while ignoring the others.