If it is true that the winners write the histories, then it is also undoubtably true that the losers write the myths. And nowhere is that more true than when dealing with the Civil War.
You may be interested in reading "The Lost Cause," a history book written very shortly after the war (1866) for a more contemporary view. The book is written by E.A. Pollard.
And you may enjoy reading "The Cause Lost: Myths and Realities of the Confederacy" by William C. Davis.
Been there, done that, have the book (and read it).