The State of Jones

In "The State of Jones," New York Times bestselling author Sally Jenkins teams up with Harvard professor John Stauffer to explore an overlooked aspect of Civil War history—the only Southern county to secede from the Confederacy. The narrative follows Newton Knight, a farmer who led a diverse group of neighbors in a rebellion against the Confederacy, challenging the traditional portrayal of Southern unity. Beyond the battlefield, Knight's life is marked by personal struggles, including his relationships with his wife and an ex-slave named Rachel, who supported him during his tumultuous journey. This engaging account presents a vivid depiction of a complex era, merging historical accuracy with compelling storytelling.