Mark R. Cheathem Books, Gene Smith, Slavery, War of 1812

Interview with Historian Gene Allen Smith

On Monday, I posted my review of Gene Smith's new book, The Slaves' Gamble: Choosing Sides in the War of 1812. Today, read an interview with Smith about his book and his future research plans. What led you to write The Slaves' Gamble? This book spawned from work with my major professor in graduate school … Continue reading Interview with Historian Gene Allen Smith

Mark R. Cheathem African American history, Gene Smith, Slavery, War of 1812

Review of Smith, The Slaves’ Gamble

Gene Smith's new book on the African-American experience during the War of 1812 is the kind of book that should have been written a long time ago. The Slaves' Gamble: Choosing Sides in the War of 1812 places African Americans front-and-center in discussions about the period between the American Revolution and 1820. Smith, professor of history … Continue reading Review of Smith, The Slaves’ Gamble

Mark R. Cheathem African American history, Gene Smith, Nathaniel Millett, War of 1812

The African American Experience during the War of 1812

I've previously lamented (here and here) the lack of attention paid to the War of 1812. A more specific historiographical gap concerns the role of African Americans during the war. At least two scholars (and hopefully more) are addressing that deficiency. Gene Smith, professor of history at TCU, has a new book out on slavery … Continue reading The African American Experience during the War of 1812

Mark R. Cheathem Andrew Jackson, Ladies' Hermitage Association, Tom Kanon, War of 1812

Andrew Jackson and the War of 1812 Centennial

The most recent issue of Tennessee Historical Quarterly includes an article, entitled "Forging the 'Hero of New Orleans': Tennessee Looks at the Centennial of the War of 1812," by Dr. Tom Kanon, a TSLA staff member and an expert on Tennessee during the War of 1812.  Kanon argues that "much of the reason for the 'success' of … Continue reading Andrew Jackson and the War of 1812 Centennial

Mark R. Cheathem Andrew Jackson, Battle of New Orleans, War of 1812

Let’s Not Forget the War of 1812

As the bicentennial of the War of 1812 approaches, let's remember its significance and celebrate the victory at New Orleans: Updated (1/8/13): H/t to Kevin McCann for the functional video link.

Mark R. Cheathem Andrew Jackson, Battle of New Orleans, War of 1812

The Hermitage’s Podcast Series: Privilege vs. Equality

From The Hermitage's podcast series: Listen in on a conversation with Dr. Robert Wettemann, Director of the Center for Oral History at the United States Air Force Academy, as he explains what happened during the War of 1812 and how the Battle of New Orleans changed the face of the military.

Mark R. Cheathem Andrew Jackson, Fort Mims, War of 1812

Preservation of Fort Mims Site

Thanks to Jimmy Johnson for posting this on Facebook: The Fort Mims Restoration Association is reviewing a conceptual master plan that will eventually guide development of the northern Baldwin County archeological site. Association member Charles S. McCulloh said the group wanted to have the preliminary plan in time for the annual re-enactment of the attack … Continue reading Preservation of Fort Mims Site