This book examines Mississippi's Civil War experience. It begins with an introductory overview of the socio-political climate of the state during the 1850s and ends with a treatment of Mississippi's post-war environment and the rise of Lost Cause mythology. In between, the work covers the pivotal events, issues, and personalities of the period. Wynne emphasizes the experiences of Mississippians--male and female, black and white--as they struggled to deal with the crisis. The political events leading to secession, Mississippians' initial enthusiasm for war, voices of dissent, the disbursement...