The Civil War divided the nation; communities; and families. The town of Batesville; Arkansas; found itself occupied three times by the Union army. This compelling book gives a unique perspective on the war’s western edge through the diary of Mary Adelia Byers (1847–1918); who began recording her thoughts and observations during the Union occupation of Batesville in 1862.Only fifteen when she starts her diary; Mary is beyond her years in maturity; as revealed by her acute observations of the world around her. At the same time; she appears very much a child of her era. Having lost her father at a young age; she and her family depend on the financial support of her Uncle William; a slaveowner and Confederate sympathizer. Through Mary’s eyes we are given surprising insights into local society during a national crisis. On the one hand; we see her flirting with Confederate soldiers in the Batesville town square and; on the other; facing the grim reality of war by “setting up†through the night with dying soldiers. Her journal ends in March 1865; shortly before the war comes to a close.Torn by War reveals the conflicts faced by an agricultural social elite economically dependent on slavery but situated on the fringes of the conflict between North and South. On a more personal level; it also shows how resilient and perceptive young people can be during times of crisis. Enhanced by extensive photographs; maps; and informative annotation; the volume is a valuable contribution to the growing body of literature on civilian life during the Civil War.
#806128 in Books Larry J Zimmerman 2000-10-15Original language:EnglishPDF # 248 8.00 x .70 x 5.50l; .91 #File Name: 0806132868184 pagesNative North America
Review
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Fine coverage that doesn't "lock" Indians in the pastBy CustomerMany books about Native Americans tend to present Indians as if they no longer exist. When I wrote this trade volume for general audiences; I insisted that the coverage treat Indian cultures in both the past AND present. The publisher was very supportive and willing to print many full color photographs; all at a decent price. In its various formats the book is now in at least 14 languages and is used in several university courses. For what it's worth; I make no royalties on the volume. I do hope you enjoy it; but especially that you will learn something. About the 5 stars; what else could I say? :)8 of 8 people found the following review helpful. Vividly illustrated; very highly recommendedBy Midwest Book ReviewLarry Zimmerman and Brian Molyneaux successfully collaborate in Native North America to illustrate tribal life; sacred arenas; spiritual traditions; and artifacts of the indigenous peoples of North America; from the Inuit of the Canadian north to the Navajo of the American southwest. After a brief introductory history of Native Americans; individual aboriginal cultures are explored; region by region. The informative surveys include Native American spiritual observances; personal and communal rituals; initiation rites; and curing ceremonies. The reader is provided informative descriptions of the powwow; rites of passage; planting rituals; oral storytelling; dreams; the ghost dance; and the drum. Of special note is an examination of issues facing Native Americans today. A very highly recommended title for students of Native American studies and history; Native North America is vividly illustrated with more than 160 color photographs.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy Linda M. RobbGreat resource book. reasonable price.
