The Civil War shaped the development of the United States of America like no other event in the country’s history, resulting in the building of one of the world’s greatest democracies. Published to commemorate the 140th anniversary of the end of the war, this book provides a unique glimpse into the world of the 1860s — the military, political and social events of the war are cxplored, and the heroes, from great leaders and generals to common soldiers and civilians, are identified. Written by an established expert on the era, The Civil War Experience contains 30 facsimile items, many removable, of rare memorabilia. The reader can relive this defining moment of history through some 200 illustrations, including specially commissioned maps, and by listening to readings of first-hand accounts of the war on an accompanying audio CD