Adelbert Ames, the Civil War, and the Creation of Modern America

Adelbert Ames was a Union general during the American Civil War and a Reconstruction-era politician who fought for civil rights and economic liberty. He was elected governor of Mississippi in 1874 but resigned due to a trial that captivated local and national media. He later helped the townspeople of Northfield, Minnesota, defeat Jesse James and the James-Younger Gang in a gunfight and volunteered to join the Spanish-American War in Cuba.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 314 pages
Publication date: 13 February 2024
Publisher: Kent State University Press

Ames, a Union general during the American Civil War, was a prominent figure in Reconstruction-era politics. Michael J. Megelsh's study explores his fascinating life, which took many compelling turns. Born in 1835 on Maine's rocky shore, he served as a Union general and was hailed as a key player in the Union's victory. After the war, he briefly remained in the army, stationed in Mississippi, where he entered politics.

During his four-year tenure as a Republican US senator representing Mississippi, Ames demonstrated a growing commitment to civil rights and fought tirelessly for the protection of freedmen in Congress. Despite facing criticism and condemnation from his colleagues, he remained steadfast in his pursuit of justice. In 1874, Ames was elected governor of Mississippi, with a vision of creating a free and prosperous state that prioritized civil rights and economic liberty. This meant challenging the growing brutality and unruliness of the white populace and a burgeoning Democratic Party.

However, Ames's struggles intensified, and political enemies sought to impeach him. This led to a contentious trial that captivated local and national media, culminating in Ames's resignation from office and the end of Reconstruction in Mississippi. Ames's once-promising political career was over.

Yet, Ames's later years remained thrilling. In 1876, he helped the townspeople of Northfield, Minnesota, defeat Jesse James and the James-Younger Gang in a gunfight during an attempted bank robbery. His bravery and heroism in this encounter earned him widespread acclaim and further solidified his reputation as a legendary figure in American history.

In conclusion, Adelbert Ames's life was a remarkable journey filled with triumphs and challenges. Despite facing adversity and political setbacks, he remained committed to his principles and fought tirelessly for the rights of marginalized communities. His contributions during Reconstruction-era politics were significant, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence generations to come.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781606354674