David in regards to leaders, let me suggest this as a possible consideration -- The Republican Party. I have a document that has been requested that I post to the SHAPE articles forum "Lincoln and Sumter." In this article there is a suggestion the war may have been casued for "the party" -- references to some historians is given. I cannot post it here because it is copyright material and used by SHAPE with permission. I see no problem in you using the info (if you see fit) if it is referenced.

GP