The Yankee Plague

“Foote delivers a story rich in style and powerful in substance. With insight and alacrity, the author delivers a powerful perspective on how the 'Yankee Plague' of escaped prisoners became an integral part of a process that contributed to the disintegration and demise of the Confederacy. There are few books that combine well-written, easy-to-read prose with groundbreaking historical insights and perspectives. This is one of them.”—American Historical Review

“This is a prime example of the very best of current Civil War History. By applying the analytical power of social history and razor-sharp military and political analysis, Foote constructs a new paradigm for understanding the war in which the most potent invading armies run away from the enemy, slaves hold the key to freedom, and women are the most domineering commanders.”—Journal of American History

“A fascinating examination of one of the under-studied effects of a collapsing war effort, namely, the inability to hold, guard, and maintain enemy prisoners of war (POWs). A brilliant examination of a complex subject.”—Journal of Military History

“An illuminating and powerful study that enhances both Civil War history and POW studies. Essential.” — CHOICE

“The Yankee Plague makes for an important addition to the literature on Civil War prisoners and the collapse of the Confederacy.” — Civil War Monitor

“Packs a very powerful scholarly punch. . . . Definitely merits award consideration and will likely earn a spot on many of this year’s ‘Best Of’ lists.” — Civil War Books and Authors

“Foote’s work is a significant achievement in that it introduces a new dimension to discussions of the Civil War.” — The Journal of Southern History

“The rare title that delivers new information and challenges readers to reconsider what they are confident they already know.”-Indiana Magazine of History

“Anyone interested in the Carolinas during the war, prisoners of war, or the war on the Southern home front will not regret adding this book to their library.” — Journal of America’s Military Past

“One of the most intriguing books on Civil War captivity in years.” — The Register of the Kentucky Historical Society