The graduate students of the George and Ann Richards Civil War Era Center announce “New Perspectives on the Civil War Era: Beyond Fragmented History,” a graduate student history conference to be held on the campus of The Pennsylvania State University on February 9, 2007.

The Richards Center is committed to the integrated and comprehensive study of the Civil War Era (1830-1880). In that spirit, conference organizers request submissions that combine social, cultural, military, religious, and political themes. Equally welcome are studies that deal expressly with social or cultural issues related to the American Civil War and Reconstruction, particularly the meaning of and struggle for freedom and the societal and cultural legacy of the Civil War in both the North and the South.

Prospective participants are asked to submit a one-page abstract and current c.v. no later than November 15, 2006. The abstract should clearly express the author’s argument and potential historiographical significance. Those invited to participate will be notified by December 1, 2006. Invited participants must submit a preliminary version of the 12-15 page (20 minute) paper to be presented by January 15, 2007.

Dr. William Blair, editor of Civil War History and director of the Richards Civil War Era Center, will offer the opening address. The one-day conference will be conducted in two sessions. Presenters during both the morning and afternoon sessions will be allotted 20 minutes and will be followed by a discussant affiliated with the Richards Center. The presenter will then have an opportunity to respond to the discussant’s commentary. At the close of each session the entire panel will field questions from the audience. A morning and afternoon buffet will be provided. At the close of the afternoon session a monetary award will be presented for the best submission.

Please e-mail all abstracts as an attachment to tlw272@psu.edu.