The Concept of Freedom During the Civil War

The concept of freedom drove an entire nation to a Civil War, which was, arguably, the bloodiest war this country has ever seen. It set North against South, nation against state, and brother against brother. Each group of individuals maintained an interpretation of freedom that was so powerful to them, they were willing to die to preserve it. However, the definition of freedom was not easily pinpointed for each individual. In fact, Eric Foner, in …

…further their financial gain. In lacking the ability to enslave blacks, the southern white population lost a bit of freedom they once possessed. The federal government revoked a privilege they once had, and by doing this, many southern whites believed their rights were also being revoked. They were no longer able to live as they wished and to govern themselves. Southern whites often tried to redeem themselves, however, by enforcing rules such as Black Codes.