A History of the South

by Francis Butler Simkins

Carefully reviews the social and political events that have shaped the history and character of the Southern states

Genres: History, Nonfiction

701 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1967

About the author

Francis Butler Simkins was a historian and president of the Southern Historical Association.

Reviews

[Benedict · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a ponderous book but if you can get through at least one volume you will find you understand the South like you never understood it before. I wonder if there is a substitute for this book anywhere else? Gone with the Wind comes to mind. But History of the South explains the idea of English manners and heritage, etc.

[Jack W. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good and helpful overview, if lacking in primary source references and some parts seems contradictory, such as the highly literate yet book disdaining society of the South, or its early public schools mentioned on one page mixed with the lack of them on the next. Despite some confusing bits there (probably due to listening), it was a good overview.

P.S. The Souths dim view of native literature and poetry has some startling parallels to the evangelical movement's interaction with the arts today.

[Joshua Mccroskey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a history worth reading, particularly if you are a son or daughter of the South. Simkins doesn't hesitate to make a fair analysis of the events that have been some our darkest times, or to detail in brutal honesty some of the distinctive characteristics that make us who we are. Ultimately, that is Simkins' goal: the exhibit what makes the South distinctive and enduring. He accomplishes it with great deft.