UPPER LAKE, Calif. – When 11 southern states seceded to form the Confederate States of America in 1861, one hope that they held out to preserve their independence was that Great Britain would intercede on their behalf.

Few Americans today realize just how close Great Britain came to declaring war on the US during the Civil War, which if they did would likely have insured southern independence.

The August Redwood Empire Civil War Roundtable will be exploring the topic "King Cotton, Queen Victoria, Lord Palmerston and John Bull" on Monday, Aug. 3, 6:15 pm, at the Tallman Hotel in historic Upper Lake.

William Eaton, a native of England, and a local amateur historian, will lead the presentation by use of a multimedia slide presentation.

In addition to Eaton's presentation, a brief discussion on the early Reconstruction period will be held and how the Nation transitioned from war to peace.

The Civil War Roundtable meets once a month to discuss topics related to that war, and is attempting to review the war month by month.

The group was founded to coincide with the Sesquicentennial of the conflict. Topics are presented in a manner that can be enjoyed by novice and expert alike. 

Future topics will expand to include some topics related to World War 1, as the centennial of that conflict is commemorated.

Admission is free and everyone is welcome.

For more information, contact Phil Smoley, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 707-264-4905, or Zane Jensen, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 707-349-6390.