This book investigates the intricate relationship between slavery, race, and the American Civil War. J. R. Pole, a noted historian, examines the foundational role of slavery in shaping American society and politics, and how racial ideologies fueled the conflict. The work analyzes the key historical developments and debates that led to the war, presenting an argument about the centrality of these issues to the nation's defining struggle.

This work is recognized as a significant contribution to the understanding of the American Civil War's origins, focusing on the intertwined nature of slavery and race. Historians generally regard Pole's analysis as thorough and insightful, providing a solid framework for comprehending the deep-seated causes of the conflict. The book is often cited for its detailed examination of the historical forces at play.