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America Quote by L. Neil Smith

“What happened in America in the 1860s was a war of secession, a war of independence, no different in principle from what happened in America in the 1770s and 1780s.” quote by L. Neil Smith
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“What happened in America in the 1860s was a war of secession, a war of independence, no different in principle from what happened in America in the 1770s and 1780s.”

L. Neil Smith

About This Quote

Source Essay: Historical Parallels, L. Neil Smith, 2005

The 1860s American war of secession mirrors the 1770s–1780s war of independence in principle.

In simple terms: Both wars were about breaking away from a larger entity.

Key Takeaway

Study recurring patterns in separatist movements.

Themes

history politics secession

Mood

analytical historical

Type

academic political

When to use this quote

  • nationalism
  • revolution
  • policy making
  • education
  • media studies

Key Concepts

political theory comparative analysis

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives secessionist sentiment?
  • How do economic factors influence independence wars?
A Different Perspective

Contextual differences affect outcomes.

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