Jefferson Davis

Every schoolchild knows that Jefferson Davis was president of the Confederacy. Most adults know little more. Who was this enigmatic man—reportedly aloof but temperamental, ravaged in health but dogged in spirit? What did he think and do as the Civil War clouds gathered and burst? This balanced biography, first published in 1907, gives focus to a character and career not well understood. From his Mississippi roots to West Point to the Mexican War to Congress to the Southern presidency and ruin—from his unique residency in the national house divided—Jefferson Davis begs better acquaintance.