From 1861-1865, the region along the Missouri-Kansas border was the scene of unbelievable death and destruction. Thousands dies; millions of dollars in property was lost; entire populations were violently uprooted. It was here also that some of the greatest atrocities in American history occurred. Yet in the great national tragedy of the Civil War, this savage warfare has seemed a minor episode. Drawing from a wide array of contemporary documents - including diaries, letters, and first-hand newspaper accounts - Thomas Goodrich presents a hair-raising report of life in this merciless guerrilla war. Filled with dramatic detail, Black flag reveals war at its very worst, told in the words of the participants themselves. Bushwhackers and Jayhawkers, soldiers and civilians, scouts, spies, runaway slaves, the generals and the guerrillas - all step forward to tell of their terrifying ordeals. From the shocking, sensational massacres at Lawrence, Baxter Springs, and Centralia to the silent terror of a woman at home alone in the 'burnt district,' Black flag is a horrifying day-by-day account of life, death, and war, told with unforgettable immediacy.

Originally published in 1995.

Prologue: May 24, 1856 -- The prairies ablaze -- The besom of destruction -- One desperate man -- Fighting the devil -- Black harvest -- The lot was cast -- Lawrence -- Order no. 11 -- A most fearful sight -- With a heavy heart -- Rider on a ple horse -- A land without pity -- At war with peace.