This paper discusses the thesis of the
book that Lincoln had to struggle with both domestic and
foreign policy in the Civil War. The author believes the book is a strong
work, particularly in the way it focuses on foreign policy to demonstrate how Lincoln was forced to issue the Emancipation Proclamation not only to free the slaves but also to prevent foreign intervention (by the French and British) on behalf of the South. The reviewer applauds Jones' treatment of this little-known aspect of the Civil War which allows the work to be fresh and informative, providing
new light on a topic which has been covered heavily by historians.