Dew’s personal Introduction describes his Confederate ancestry, and he both sincerely and ironically expresses identification with white Southern identity. Using examples, describe how this choice strengthens the book’s argument and/or how it may limit his authority or his assertions.

Early in the book, Dew states that “the story [the documents of the secession commissioners] tell is one that all of us, northerners and southerners, black and white, need to confront” (3). What stylistic choices offer points of access to a broad, diverse readership? Where, if at all, does Dew write toward a more specific identity or identities?

Some commissioners characterize Lincoln’s election as a declaration of war and the North as “fanatical.” Analyze what the South stands to gain from this characterization, and explain the larger narrative(s) it helps to construct.