Description
The Demon of Unrest
In The Demon of Unrest, Erik Larson explores the feverish buildup to the Civil War with his signature storytelling flair, focusing on a cast of historical figures caught in a web of political chaos, moral crisis, and escalating tensions. At the center is Abraham Lincoln, the newly elected president navigating uncharted waters as Southern states secede one by one. Around him are fiery voices of rebellion, uncertain military leaders, and anguished civilians swept into a whirlwind of ideological division. Larson brings to life not only the famous names—like Jefferson Davis and Robert Anderson—but also the lesser-known individuals whose decisions, fears, and beliefs shaped the course of history. What unfolds is not just a tale of politics and war, but a deeply human saga of hubris, heartbreak, and reluctant heroism. With vivid detail and emotional nuance, Larson reveals how close the United States came to collapse before a single shot was fired, offering a haunting reminder of how fragile democracy can be in times of deep division. Through previously untapped archives and newly interpreted historical sources, The Demon of Unrest is both a timely reflection on national fracture and a gripping story of courage, failure, and the high cost of leadership in crisis.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.