This book chronicles the political and intellectual development of the two major antebellum peace movements. The American Peace Society, a moderate peace group, aimed to work through the institutions of church and state to achieve peace. The New England Nonresistant Society constituted a radical group which advocated the individual's complete separation from all institutions and strict adherence to the example of Christ's life and teachings.

Chronicles the life of Julia Ward Howe, discussing her privileged childhood, schooling, unhappy marriage, writing successes, family life, and other related topics.