Campfire and Battlefield

John Brown Gordon

1832–1904

A dramatic Civil War general turned politician, he became one of the most visible public figures in postwar Georgia. His life links battlefield leadership, Reconstruction-era conflict, and the making of the "New South."

Best remembered for editing a sweeping history of Brooklyn and the Brooklyn Daily Eagle, this late-19th-century writer gathered local stories, institutions, and civic life into a vivid record of a growing city.

O. O. (Oliver Otis) Howard

1830–1909

A Union general, Medal of Honor recipient, and key Reconstruction-era leader, he is remembered both for his Civil War service and for directing the Freedmen's Bureau after emancipation. His name also lives on through Howard University, established during the years he helped shape education for formerly enslaved people.

Rossiter Johnson

1840–1931

A prolific 19th- and early 20th-century American man of letters, he wrote poetry, history, and reference works while helping shape major encyclopedias and anthologies. His career ranged from newspaper work to literary editing, with a lasting gift for making knowledge readable.

John Tyler Morgan

1824–1907

A fierce and influential voice in post–Civil War politics, this Alabama senator helped shape debates over national expansion, military affairs, and the South’s place in the reunited country. His long public career also reflects some of the most divisive ideas and power struggles of his era.

John Clark Ridpath

1840–1900

Best known as an American educator and popular historian, he wrote sweeping histories and lively biographical works for a wide general audience. His books helped bring big historical subjects to readers in the late 19th century in a clear, accessible style.