Portrait and Biography of Parson Brownlow, The Tennessee Patriot

A concise biography and collected writings trace the life and public career of William G. Brownlow, an itinerant Methodist preacher turned newspaper editor and fierce Unionist. It narrates his modest upbringing and self-education, rise to prominence as editor of the Knoxville Whig, and vigorous political and religious controversies. Selections include his final editorial and farewell after his newspaper was suppressed, speeches delivered in several cities, and first-hand accounts of his clashes with secessionist authorities, indictment, arrest, and imprisonment. The volume combines biographical narrative with public addresses and polemical pieces to present his views on Union, secession, and the personal costs of political dissent.