In this timely and thoughtful book, Paul D. Escott surveys the current state of Civil War studies and explores the latest developments in research and interpretation. He focuses on specific issues where promising work is yet to be done, highlighting subjects such as the deep roots of the war, the role of African Americans, and environmental history, among others. He also identifies digital tools which have only recently become available and which allow researchers to take advantage of information in ways that were never before possible. --Back cover.

Understanding the roots of war -- Understanding societies in war : challenges and opportunities -- African Americans in the Civil War years -- Military history -- New techniques, new opportunities -- Environmental approaches to the Civil War -- Consequences and continuities.