Our Man in Charleston: Britain’s Secret Agent in the Civil War South by Christopher Dickey

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Our Man in Charleston: Britain’s Secret Agent in the Civil War South by Christopher Dickey


                When people look back on the history of America’s Civil War often the focus is solely on the effect this war had on the United States and its ability to own slaves. Rightfully so. The idea of a country splitting itself in two so half of that country can own human beings is extremely problematic and questions not only the morals of that country but where it will continue to stand in history. What makes Our Man in Charleston stand out from other Civil War historical books is that the focus is towards Britain and the man partly responsible for keeping Great Britain out of the war. That man was the British Consul in Charleston, South Carolina, Robert Bunch.
                I can honestly say that the majority of the information provided within these pages, is information I had never been privy to. It’s interesting and scary to imagine how different the outcome of the war may have been if a man like Robert Bunch hadn’t been front and center and able to honestly report to the British Crown the activities taking place in Charleston. As a man opposed to slavery, Bunch was in a precarious position. He had to live in South Carolina and maintain relationships with people who condoned slavery and in many instances praised its existence. His letters to other consuls and to London showed his true feelings toward the South. Bunch was disgusted by slavery and was afraid, as were many in London, that those in the South were trying to open the African Slave Trade again in the South. His reporting both before and during the war would be a saving grace in keeping the crown out of the war.

                I really enjoyed this book. It was well written, extremely well researched, with great world building and an abundance of information. The tension was believable and the problems laid bare. I think Dickey did a great job constructing the life of Bunch by using his letters and his own opinions as often as possible. I can easily recommend it to anyone interested in Civil War history. I give this 4 out of 5 stars. 

 Thank you Blogging for Books for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. 

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