Revealing the power and persistence of disunion movements in every era and region, a journalist explores the fallacy embedded in the name "United States": From its colonial beginnings to the Civil War to today, America has nearly fallen apart many times amid tensions with seceding factions.
... engaging and enlightening ... Kreitner explores this hidden thread of disunion in a fresh, well-documented and persuasive way ... There is so much more in this provocative and often surprising book, including the ways that secessionist movements have continued into the present. Kreitner challenges readers to rethink what the Union means to us and how we can help it live up to its highest ideals. Reading Break It Up is an excellent place to start.
... a compelling narrative on the politics of secession in American history ... By drawing on the parallel experiences and activities occurring today, Kreitner deftly explains the historical continuums and predicaments of the states ... Packed with notes on a variety of sources, this book can be a dense read. But for readers interested in American history and politics, particularly the role and response of the federal government during crises, this book offers a powerful and refreshing account on disunity in America and helps us understand more about today's political fragmentation under state and national governments.
... this book reminds us of the important roles compromise and contention have played in American history ... In highly detailed fashion, Kreitner’s incisive analysis delves into how secession, division and other forces that separate Americans have played into the nation’s history, from revolutionary days until now.
