The Copperhead

Set during the American Civil War, 'The Copperhead' by Harold Frederic is a historical novel that delves into the dangerous realities faced by those who opposed the war in the North. The story follows the life of Jimmy Beech, an orphaned boy adopted by a family of farmers who believe that the Union should make peace with the Confederates instead of waging war. As tensions escalate, Abner Beech, the patriarch of the family, falls from grace and becomes ostracized by his community for his Copperhead beliefs. Meanwhile, his son Jeff enlists to fight in the war, which only intensifies Abner's bitterness and political convictions. Frederic's novel is thought-provoking and offers a fresh perspective on a lesser-known aspect of American history.