The Civil War

[Plechazunga]

I first watched this Ken Burns documentary series in the early nineties, and was blown away.

Downloaded it again recently. It's absolutely superb. Mostly drawing on photographic archives and diaries, over ten episodes it gives a fantastic sense of the era and the importance of the war that created modern America (and to a large extent modern warfare).

My only quibble is that it could do with more from the black/slave POV. But this is a more moving and informative ten hours than you could get most other ways.

 

[Grinner]

I read Shelby Foote's 3-volume history afterwards. It took me a year but it was worth it.

 

[RedMist99]

Going to have to look into this. The American Civil War is one of my key gaps in History knowledge.

 

[711]

Seen most episodes several times over the years, absolutely superb.

Even the music. The Ashokan Farewell runs through my head for days afterwards each time.

 

[R.N7]

I watched the first three episodes a year ago and I enjoyed them, need to make make the effort and finish watching the rest someday.

^ Agreed with the music, very haunting at times.

 

[Plechazunga]

I read Shelby Foote's 3-volume history afterwards. It took me a year but it was worth it.

Ordered

Agreed on the music. Especially the theme song and that gospel number, 'Soldiers of the Lord' I think it's called.

 

[Smores]

I may have to get this. My only insight into the civil war has been through reading team of rivals which I thoroughly enjoyed. Would love to learn more.

 

[ILBB15]

I have to admit I had tears in my eyes when I heard Sullivan Ballou's letter to his wife he wrote just before he died in combat. It's the most beautiful love letter ever written.