Living on the Edge

Living on the Edge: Texas During the Civil War and Reconstruction explores the complex issues faced by Texans in the Civil War era. Through a wide range of primary source documents, the book sheds light on a distinct historical perspective born of the combination of geographic location and cultural diversity.

The readings and primary source documents in the book record both exceptional and mundane events of everyday life during a dramatic and fascinating era. While students may already be familiar with slavery, secession, the war years, and the Reconstruction period, they will gain new insight into history through personal writings such as slave narratives and diaries. In addition, speeches and ads, government reports, and political documents reflect the perspective and concerns of society at the time.

The geographic position of Texas combined with its cultural diversity make the history of Texas in the Civil War era unique. Living on the Edge: Texas During the Civil War and Reconstruction offers a look at an aspect of American history that is suitable for courses in Civil War history, Texas history, and historical methods.