Vale of tears
Book Description
The turbulent era following America's Civil War becomes a profound lens for understanding how faith shapes social transformation in this illuminating scholarly collection. Edward J. Blum brings together historians and religious studies experts to explore how sacred beliefs became the driving force behind one of the nation's most pivotal periods.
This interdisciplinary work reveals how diverse communities navigated the complex landscape of Reconstruction through their spiritual convictions. From African Americans claiming their freedom to white Southerners grappling with defeat, from New England abolitionists to former Confederate soldiers, each group drew upon their understanding of the divine to make sense of radical change. The collection demonstrates how Catholics and Protestants across regional divides brought their sacred worldviews into both cooperation and conflict during this transformative time.
Rather than viewing Reconstruction purely through political or economic frameworks, these essays illuminate how religious language, symbols, and beliefs provided the very vocabulary for reimagining American society. The authors examine how communities used their faith traditions to navigate uncertainty, justify their actions, and envision new possibilities for their fractured nation.
For readers interested in how spiritual beliefs influence social change, this work offers valuable insights into the intersection of faith and historical transformation. The collection challenges conventional historical narratives while revealing the profound role that religious conviction plays in times of upheaval and renewal.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~7 hours)
📄 Length: 265 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Southern states, politics and government
- ✓ Explore Politics and government
- ✓ Explore Southern states, social conditions
- ✓ Explore History
- ✓ Explore Reconstruction (U.S. history, 1865-1877)
- ✓ Explore Southern states, religion
- ✓ Explore United states, religion
- ✓ Explore Religion
