... The first step I would suggest is to see how the Civil War fits into the continuum of history. To do this you are going to have to begin with a clear understanding of the events prior to the outbreak of hostilities.
To this end I would suggest using 1861 as a starting date and go back at least 50 years....
HBB,
I don't disagree with your methodology if your intent is to raise awareness or knowledge among academics.
I think to help the general public understand what they think and feel about the Civil War, the most important 50 years is the last 50 years, and how the symbols of the civil War have been used to influence and manipulate peoples emotions for political or financial gain.
Whether Senator X caned Senator Y and when, and whatfor, probably doesn't amount to a hill of beans to a person of 30, 40 or 50 years old today.
It's what Daddy told them, or GrandPappy told them, and understanding where and why GrandPappy heard it, and repeated it is most important.
