Challenge traditional views of the American South and delve into the complex realities of Civil War-era Tennessee. Robert Tracy McKenzie’s insightful study dismantles simplistic notions, revealing profound socio-economic and political differences between the Plantation Belt and the Appalachian Upcountry. This essential historical analysis explores the internal divisions that shaped the Confederacy and its aftermath. Gain a nuanced understanding of Southern society, making it a vital read for students of American history, Civil War scholars, and researchers seeking a deeper perspective on a pivotal era.