I certainly have learned a lot in the process. The post-CW history (i.e., Reconstruction) is almost more fascinating in a sick way, as white supremacy reshapes itself to the post-slavery world. Looking at the war itself from the perspective of the slaves and free blacks is also sadly eye-opening -- sadly, because it reflects poorly on my own ignorance! But even more sad that the Lost Cause is still such a force in our country 150 years later.