Stephen A. Goldman looks at the contentious post–Civil War era from the perspective of Union soldiers who supported the civil rights efforts of black comrades and of African Americans overall. He explores the root causes of this historic contest, the changing attitudes of northern servicemen with respect to the Civil War’s purpose, and the psychological effect of involvement in what, from hindsight, was an unfinished work in the cause of freedom and equality for all Americans. A book signing will follow the program.