"Clash of Extremes takes on the reigning orthodoxy that the American Civil War was waged over high moral principles. Mare Egnal contends that economics, more than any other factor. moved the country to war in 1861." "Sweeping from the 1820s through Reconstruction and filled with colorful portraits of leading individuals, Clash of Extremes emphasizes economics while giving careful consideration to social conflicts. ideology, and the rise of the antislavery movement. The result is a bold reinterpretation that will challenge the way we think about the Civil War."--Jacket.