This seminar will examine the long-debated question of whether the Civil War was about preserving the Union or the abolition of slavery – but from the perspective of those who led and fought the war themselves. Teachers will work through a diverse set of 19th Century documents in order to understand the terms of the debate then, and how those involved asserted their understanding of the causes for and reasons behind America’s civil war.

This program will be conducted as a discussion, utilizing primary source documents as the only readings, and with the Discussion Leader facilitating the conversation, instead of lecturing or presenting. Registrants, therefore, are highly encouraged to read all the documents in advance and come ready with questions. All attendees will receive a Letter of Attendance at the end of the seminar.