Raising the White Flag

Brief Summary

Raising the White Flag by David Silkenat is a pioneering exploration of the role of surrender in the American Civil War. Through meticulous archival research, Silkenat provides the first comprehensive analysis of surrender, an aspect often overlooked in traditional Civil War historiography. By focusing on the experiences of those who surrendered, the book offers new insights into related topics such as the treatment of prisoners of war, the dynamics of guerrilla warfare, and the experiences of Southern Unionists and African American soldiers. Silkenat aims to challenge prevailing narratives and enrich the reader's understanding of this tumultuous period.

Main Themes and Topics

The book delves into the significance of surrender within the context of the Civil War, tackling themes such as the notion of honor among soldiers, the complexities of combat, and the evolving legal frameworks governing wartime conduct. Silkenat's work highlights how surrender was not merely a personal or tactical decision but a multifaceted event that affected morale, military strategy, and civilian perceptions. Other important themes include the moral and ethical considerations faced by soldiers and the impact of surrender on their post-war lives.

Writing Style and Tone

David Silkenat employs a well-researched and academic yet accessible writing style, making complex historical analyses comprehensible to both scholars and general readers. His tone is balanced, providing a thoughtful and objective examination of the subject matter. The use of vivid anecdotes and personal stories of soldiers enhances the narrative, bringing to life the human elements behind the historical data.

Criticism

While Raising the White Flag has been largely praised for its originality and depth, some readers may find the dense archival research and extensive footnotes somewhat daunting. The focus on surrender might also strike some as too narrow or specialized, potentially limiting its appeal to those with a keen interest in military history or the Civil War. Nevertheless, these aspects are also seen as strengths by those who appreciate detailed historical scholarship.