The death of slavery; the United States, 1837-65

*The Death of Slavery* provides a quick overview of how the "slavery" question affected politics in the U.S starting in 1837. Laborious and in-depth analysis of every nuance and detail of the political thinking of the time are available in other books... and some of those books are also written by Smith. But this book is a gem at getting at the overall sweep of events of those years. In addition, the underlying sense of humor helps the reader understand some of the outrageous political events of the time.

Smith devotes a few paragraphs to explain each of the candidates in the crucial 1856 elections, which illustrates how an analysis employing a sense of humor can explain better than using dry facts. The newly formed Republican party, the show more fear-mongering and bigoted Know-nothing party and a deeply divided Democratic party are explained. He caps off the analysis with this summary:

"In 1856, therefore, America's presidential choices were a dashing hero lacking in common sense but running on a platform in step with democracy's highest ideals; a former President campaigning from the best of motives but representing a party dedicated to the worst of human emotions; and a professional politician hitherto noted only for indecisiveness and subservience to Southern interests."

Smith provides an excellent and concise examination of the "Dred Scott" decision. He also provides an equally concise examination of how the court's decision affected politics in Washington, and the practicalities of a nation having to live with Stephen Douglas' tragic "popular sovereignty" ideas that he had written into laws regarding slavery in the Western territories.

If you are looking for an easy to understand book to explain the hard to understand period of American history, this is the book you are looking for. In addition, those who enjoy genealogy and are trying to figure out what was happening in the country that might have motivated your ancestors to move across the landscape, this book is an excellent resource. The acquisition of territory and the conversion of territory into states provides the subtext of the "slavery" question. The same events provide subtext to the motivations of our ancestors to pick up and move. Everyone trying to understand their family history of these times should have this book. show less