The Military Leadership of Grant and Lee during the 1864 Overland Campaign

In the spring of 1864, two mighty armies, led by superb commanders, fought for dominance in central Virginia.  The outcome of what is known as the Overland Campaign could not be foretold. Generals Grant and Lee grappled with difficulties that tested their leadership on a daily basis throughout the month of May and into early summer.  We will explore the ways in which these two commanders met their myriad challenges during one of the most deadly periods in American military history.

 Leaders Known, Leaders Forgotten: Command and Character in the Civil War

Explores the various styles of leadership on the battlefield and in high command, with special attention to the interactions of character, personal background, generational issues and talent. What are the consistencies and contradictions of successful battlefield leadership? What were the primary challenges leaders faced? How often did personal relationships determine outcomes? Are there lessons for today, or is leadership different now? Discussion will focus on commanders from Grant and Lee to Jackson, Hooker, Sheridan, Gordon, Stuart, O. O. Howard and Carl Schurz, with various “honorable mentions.”

Recollections of Appomattox

Reflections that delve into not only some historical aspects of Appomattox, but also personal reflections on attending the 100th, 125th, and 150th Anniversary events.

Sex and the Civil War: Soldiers, Pornography and the Making of American Morality

This talk will explore the Civil War origins of the anti-pornography legislation by taking a look at the impetus behind a February 1865 law. Making use of the wartime letters and diaries of a number of Union soldiers, the lecture considers soldiers’ own experiences with period erotica. What did they have access to, read, circulate? And, what did these materials mean to them? The Civil War was a turning point for the influential rise of postwar anti-vice campaigns. These also included laws against contraceptives and abortion, newly entrenched legal regulations of marriage, and ever broader social purity initiatives around sexuality.

When War Came This Way: The Women’s War

The Civil War in Virginia brought women untold challenges, crushing hardships, and great pain. But the conflict which often dashed their hopes for the future also spurred women to step into roles previously denied them. Then, they made significant contributions to their families, their communities, and their state. When war came this way, women achieved a reputation for sacrifice, selfless service, and leadership that inspires us still.