The Field of Blood: Violence in Congress and the Road to Civil War
The Field of Blood: Violence in Congress and the Road to Civil War
Book Brief
BetaThe Field of Blood: Violence in Congress and the Road to Civil War
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2018450
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 19th century
2018
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Field of Blood: Violence in Congress and the Road to Civil War by Joanne B. Freeman explores the physical confrontations and threats among Congress members leading up to the Civil War. Drawing on personal accounts and historical records, it highlights how these violent interactions intensified political and sectional tensions in the United States.
Informative
Mysterious
Dark
Suspenseful
Reviews & Readership
3,026 ratings
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Review Roundup
Joanne B. Freeman's The Field of Blood: Violence in Congress and the Road to Civil War offers a riveting exploration of congressional violence in antebellum America. Critics praise its engaging narrative and rich historical detail. Some note its dense documentation might overwhelm casual readers. Overall, it's a compelling study of political conflict leading to the Civil War.
Who Should Read The Field of Blood: Violence in Congress and the Road to Civil War?
Readers interested in American history, political intrigue, and early congressional dynamics would enjoy Freeman's The Field of Blood. Fans of Goodwin's Team of Rivals or Chernow's Alexander Hamilton would appreciate its vivid storytelling and deep historical insights.
3,026 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Field of Blood uncovers over 70 violent incidents in Congress during the decades leading up to the Civil War, often involving physical altercations and duels among lawmakers.
Joanne B. Freeman highlights how the intense regional tensions and heated debates of the era frequently erupted into violence, reflecting the deep political divides that were present in the United States.
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The book illustrates how these acts of violence in Congress were often a public spectacle, drawing significant attention from both the press and the public, thus influencing perceptions and political alignments.
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Book • Nonfiction
United States • 19th century
2018
Adult
18+ years
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