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Archiver > CIVIL-WAR > 1998-03 > 0889056388


From: "Odegard" <>
Subject: Re: History has been taught wrong!!!!
Date: Wed, 4 Mar 1998 18:06:28 -6


> Most of the history books are written by
> people in the north who tell the story from the
> northern viewpoint.

Shelby Foote's nonstop history is from the northern viewpoint?
Pearson is biased?

Modern histories are written from a national viewpoint. Some classic
works (e.g., _Johnny Reb_, _Billy Yank_) are written from specific
viewpoints, but ultimately achieve a national perspective.

Older, sectionally-biased histories are apparent for what they are --
and are rightfully treasured for what they are (can you imagine being
without Sam Watkins' account?).

Good historians write about history, warts and all. They do not
write about how it should have been, or in any prettify it.
--
Mark Odegard mailto:

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