<p>Returning to the turbulent days of a nation divided bestselling author and acclaimed historian James Robertson explores seventy fascinating figures who shaped America during Reconstruction and beyond.</p><p>Relentless politicians intrepid fighters cunning innovators—the times called for bold moves and this resilient generation would not disappoint. From William Tecumseh Sherman a fierce leader who would revolutionize modern warfare to Thomas Nast whose undefeatable weapon was his stirring cartoons these are the people who weathered the turmoil to see a nation reborn.</p><p>Following these extraordinary legends from the battle lines to the White House from budding metropolises to the wooly west we rediscover the foundation of this great country.</p>