During the Civil War, New York City played a central role in the abolitionist movement and pro-Union war effort. In his new book, City of Sedition: The History of New York City During the Civil War, historian John Strausbaugh reveals that New Yorkers were also leading anti-war and anti-draft movements, and factories were making millions from war profiteering. He also looks at the roles of memorable figures including, Walt Whitman, Thomas Nast, Herman Melville and Boss Tweed.

Event: John Strausbaugh will be speaking and signing books at Book Court (163 Court Street, Brooklyn) on Wednesday, August 17th at 7 p.m.