How does Erik Larson’s choice to focus on the period before and after the Civil War, but leave out the war itself, contribute to his characterization of the people who lived through it, such as Major Anderson, Edmund Ruffin, and/or Mary Chesnut?

Describe the symbolism of Fort Sumter and how it evolved as South Carolina moved toward secession. What made the fort such an important focal point in the secession crisis? What is its wider significance in the text?

Pick two characters on different sides of the secession debate. How did their misunderstandings about the other side contribute to civil conflict and lead to war?