Description

 Capital Dames

 “NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER”

In this captivating and enlightening companion to her bestselling books Founding Mothers and Ladies of Liberty, Cokie Roberts commemorates the 150th anniversary of the Civil War by delving into the captivating history of Washington, D.C. during this pivotal period in American history. As the nation was torn apart by war, the nation’s capital found itself at the center of the conflict, with its women playing a crucial role in shaping the course of events.

With the outbreak of the Civil War, Washington, D.C., a once quaint and social Southern town, was thrust into the heart of a four-year battle that would determine the fate of the United States. As Southern women fled the city following the secession, those who remained, like Adele Cutts Douglas and Elizabeth Blair Lee, faced the daunting task of navigating the challenges of safety and sanitation in a transformed capital.

With their loved ones joining the fight on the front lines or in Congress, the women of Washington rallied together, joining the cause as nurses, organizers, relief workers, and journalists. Some even risked their lives working in dangerous munitions factories or sewing gunpowder bags for the troops.

Through meticulous research, Cokie Roberts unveils the untold stories of these remarkable women, shedding light on their growing independence, political empowerment, and indispensable contributions to keeping the Union intact during the war. From their involvement in crucial roles such as printing greenbacks to finance the war at the Treasury Department, to their needlework skills being put to use at The Navy Yard, these women played a vital role in the war effort. Roberts concludes that the Civil War not only transformed Washington, D.C. but also forever changed the status and significance of women in American society. Drawing from a wealth of primary sources, including newspaper articles, government records, and personal letters and diaries, Roberts paints a vivid picture of the war-torn capital through the lives of its resilient and influential women.

About The Author

Cokie Roberts, a highly respected American journalist and bestselling author, made significant contributions to the media industry throughout her remarkable career. Known for her insightful political reporting and analysis, she became a trusted voice on National Public Radio and ABC News. Roberts held prestigious positions on esteemed programs such as World News Tonight and This Week, where she shared her expertise and provided viewers with a comprehensive understanding of complex political issues. Her dedication and passion for journalism left an enduring legacy in the field, inspiring future generations of reporters and analysts.

“Cokie Roberts regularly dissects the power dynamics of modern-day Washington. As an author, though, she’s demonstrated a special regard for the farther reaches of American history and its behind-the-scenes players.” — New York Times Book Review

“Roberts is a gifted narrator of Civil War history, weaving the experiences and perspectives of the women into a fresh and illuminating account of key battles and events, from John Brown’s raid on Harper’s Ferry to the assassination of the president.” — Washington Post

“An engaging narrative…. Roberts documents the struggles of many women to overcome their second-class status.… [she] does not ignore the experiences of ‘ordinary’ women.” — Philadelphia Inquirer

“Helping to reverse…cultural ignorance in American history…Roberts again combines her historical interest and long personal knowledge of Washington politics… [and] unearths the important and unique role of women during the US Civil War.” — Christian Science Monitor

“An enlightening account detailing how the Civil War changed the nation’s capital while expanding the role of women in politics, health care, education, and social services. ” — Kirkus Reviews

“Another splendid female-centric slice of history. . . . Roberts illuminates how the harsh realities of the war changed the course of individual lives and permanently altered the course of American women’s history.” — Booklist

“The author’s extensive research…gives this fresh look at Washington, DC during the Civil War era a sense of intimacy, immediacy, and originality… [A] well-written, readable study. . . . Informative and accessible.” — Library Journal