Sign up for Intelligence Squared Premium here: https://iq2premium.supercast.com/ for ad-free listening, bonus content, early access and much more. See below for details. How can history and literature help us make sense of the current turmoil we encounter in the world? We're joined by two US writers whose work is helping readers rethink their understanding of the American Civil War period and drawing new links with the polarised politics of the present day. Sarah Churchwell is author of The Wrath to Come, an analysis of the history and legacy of Margaret Mitchell’s epic novel Gone With the Wind. She is also Professor of American Literature and Chair of Public Understanding of the Humanities at the School of Advanced Study at University of London. Karen Joy Fowler is the New York Times bestselling author, whose latest novel is Booth, focusing on the story of John Wilkes Booth, the man who would eventually assassinate President Abraham Lincoln. Host of today's discussion is Intelligence Squared's Conor Boyle.  … We are incredibly grateful for your support. To become an Intelligence Squared Premium subscriber, follow the link: https://iq2premium.supercast.com/  Here’s a reminder of the benefits you’ll receive as a subscriber: Ad-free listening, because we know some of you would prefer to listen without interruption  One early episode per week Two bonus episodes per month A 25% discount on IQ2+, our exciting streaming service, where you can watch and take part in events live at home and enjoy watching past events on demand and without ads  A 15% discount and priority access to live, in-person events in London, so you won’t miss out on tickets Our premium monthly newsletter  Intelligence Squared Merch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices