The Fate of Liberty

A Pulitzer Prize-winning history delves into the controversial constitutional policies of Abraham Lincoln. The book explores the suspension of the writ of habeas corpus, detailing who was jailed and why. The author argues that Lincoln's actions were a response to unprecedented events, including disintegrating public order in border states, contraband trade with the South, and corruption among army contractors. The book also highlights abuses of power under martial law, including anti-Semitism among Union generals and officials and the routine torture of suspected deserters. Despite flaws in the justice system, the author finds that Lincoln remained dedicated to prosecuting the war effectively and was concerned with political realities. This is a must-read for anyone interested in civil liberties during the Civil War era.