Date of Award

6-15-2024

Document Type

Masters Thesis

Degree Name

M.A. in International Studies

Organizational Unit

Josef Korbel School of International Studies, International Studies

First Advisor

Paul R. Viotti

Keywords

American Civil War, American governance, Civil-military relations

Abstract

The American Civil War was the defining event that shaped civil-military relations in the United States. This master's thesis explores the multifaceted dynamics between civilian and military leadership during this crucial period in American history. It examines the relationship between civilian political authority and the military establishment, while incorporating the related roles of Congress, public opinion and international influences. The research explores the decision-making processes, the balance of power, and the impact of leadership styles and personalities on civil-military interactions during times of armed conflict.

This thesis explores in particular the significance of President Lincoln's leadership, his ability to manage divergent military personalities, and the challenges of maintaining civilian control over the armed forces while adapting to the unprecedented demands of total warfare. The findings generated by this thesis will contribute to the scholarship surrounding the American Civil War and the interactions between civilian and military authorities during an existential national crisis, shedding light on the evolution of these dynamics in subsequent conflicts within the broader framework of American civil-military relations.

Copyright Date

6-2024

Copyright Statement / License for Reuse

All Rights Reserved
All Rights Reserved.

Publication Statement

Copyright is held by the author. User is responsible for all copyright compliance.

Rights Holder

Riley Callahan

Provenance

Received from ProQuest

File Format

application/pdf

Language

English (eng)

Extent

161 pgs

File Size

905 KB

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