Sixteen historians, all members of the Society of Independent Southern Historians, have come together to write this truthful history of America specifically for home-schooled students. Herein is a history that is truthful, concise, yet comprehensive, written especially for students of middle school and high school age and for the parents who provide guidance through the home-school educational approach.

The 40 student lessons in this book present 278 years of our history: from the founding of the Jamestown, Virginia, colony to the restoration of a healthy balance in American politics as evidenced by the election of Democrat Grover Cleveland in 1885. Each lesson (or chapter) includes suggestions for student discussion and lists a few resources for further study. The history of how Patriots of the Southern colonies were instrumental in winning our American Revolution and creating our original limited-power federal government is covered. The history of how pioneers of the Southern culture spearheaded the western migration to the Mississippi and beyond is covered.

Our Civil War, also known as the War Between the States, was the major event in those 278 years of our history. For that reason, the political sectionalism that tore the country apart is presented in detail. The war itself is covered, but only one lesson reviews major battles. The subsequent political reconstruction is covered in detail, with ample explanation of how the principle of state rights, previously treasured in both the North and the South, was subjugated under a far more powerful federal government following the conquest of the Confederate states.

The Society of Independent Southern Historians is a nonprofit educational organization registered in North Carolina and composed of members all across America. Some members are school teachers and college professors, but most have, instead, pursued careers in other fields. Many are retired. All have a passion for the truthful telling of history and have, collectively, acquired an extensive knowledge of Southern history, literature, biography, culture, etc. Our interests range from the settlement of the Jamestown, Virginia, colony in 1607 to just prior to World War II. We refrain from involvement in current political commentary.

We are “independent” because we are not obligated to any organization or agenda of any stripe. Many American educators today strive to orient their presentation of history in a way that makes it appear to be “relevant” to society today. Our historians do not! We orient our presentations to ensure they are factual, comprehensive, and true to the events of the era being studied. Our motto is simply this: “In all endeavors always seek the truth, for the truth shall set you free.”