The Life of Jefferson Davis

"The Life of Jefferson Davis" by Frank H. Alfriend is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work focuses on Jefferson Davis, the only President of the Confederate States of America, and aims to provide an extensive narration of his life, particularly emphasizing his leadership during the Civil War and the principles behind the Confederate cause. Alfriend positions Davis as a key figure in American history who has been unjustly criticized due to the outcome of the conflict. The opening of the book presents a preface where Alfriend expresses his candid acknowledgment of the challenges he faced in writing about Davis. He discusses the significant historical context of Davis's life, particularly the perception of him as a controversial figure following the Confederacy's failure. Alfriend emphasizes his intention to present a narrative grounded in truth, free from sectional bias, while also underscoring the principles of states' rights that Davis championed throughout his political career. By highlighting the dichotomies in the perception of Davis— as both a valiant leader and a reviled figure— the opening sets the stage for a detailed exploration of Davis's birth, education, military career, and political ascent, foreshadowing a nuanced examination of his legacy.