Dwight Lowell Dumond's The Secession Movement 1860–1861 is a definitive and meticulously researched account of the critical months leading up to the American Civil War. Examining the political, economic, and social forces that fueled the secession crisis, Dumond provides a comprehensive analysis of the events and decisions that ultimately led to the dissolution of the Union. Through an in-depth exploration of primary sources, political speeches, legislative debates, and public sentiment, Dumond traces the escalating tensions between the North and South following Abraham Lincoln's election in 1860. He delves into the motivations and justifications presented by Southern leaders, the reactions of Northern politicians, and the complex negotiations that sought to prevent the impending conflict. The book examines key figures and pivotal moments, including the secession conventions, the role of border states, and the failed attempts at compromise, such as the Crittenden Compromise. Dumond also highlights the influence of economic interests, states' rights arguments, and the divisive issue of slavery in shaping the movement. Written with clarity and scholarly rigor, The Secession Movement 1860–1861 offers an essential perspective on the political instability and ideological divisions that led to America's most devastating war. Dumond's work remains a crucial resource for historians, students, and readers seeking a deeper understanding of the forces that fractured the nation and set the stage for the Civil War.