Terrible Swift Sword: Confederate Ascendency and Ultimate Defeat - Class 14

Explore a thought-provoking lecture from Yale University's DeVane Lecture Series examining the pivotal moments of Confederate dominance and eventual downfall during the Civil War. Delve into Professor David Blight's analysis of how slavery and racism have fundamentally shaped American institutions throughout history and continue to influence modern society. Learn about the complex relationship between Yale University and slavery, while considering critical questions about the sustainability of democratic, multi-ethnic governance under constitutional law. Examine the various legacies of the Civil War - from political and constitutional impacts to racial and economic consequences - and their lasting effects on American society. Part of a broader series investigating whether historical patterns of systemic inequality could resurface, this 57-minute lecture draws parallels between past challenges to American democracy and contemporary concerns about maintaining a pluralistic society.