I know everybody and his brother will mention him, but check out Paul Johnson's books. He may softpedal certain things but overall he's an amazing source of info on American history.
Paul Johnson Bump!
I am more than halfway through the first book of the Shaara trilogy, (own the second one, will order the third soon) have now seen both Gods and Generals and Gettysburg, have a long weekend trip reserved and planned to Gettysburg this summer, have a (big) Paul Johnson book sitting on my table on a waiting list to be read, have many more books in the wings.
I am starting to watch the Ken Burns Civil War series this very weekend. By the way...I am LOVING it all!
Tonight I'm only writing to the folks here on whose suggestions I've already acted...there are other responses in this thread I also am hoping to deal with down the road.
THANK YOU all for putting me on a great pathway! Additional input always welcome.