Generations of Americans have witnessed the political disputes over slavery and abortion, the two most contentious issues in the nation's history. This book surveys the origins and course of this unfortunate strife, arguing that leaders on both sides of the two issues have embraced political expediency or an illogical view of the Constitution, rather than viable solutions. Focusing on key events and a diverse range of individuals, Extremism Triumphant offers fresh perspectives while lamenting missed opportunities and bitter debate.Making extensive use of Congressional debates and Supreme Court opinions, the narrative takes us on a journey from before the nation's founding to the early part of the 21st Century. Critical of each pole of the slavery impasse that brought civil war, the book shows how the nation made numerous errors as it tried to tackle the equally passionate feud over reproductive freedom. Unsurprisingly, both camps of the modern abortion debate receive criticism. With a willingness to question conventional wisdom dear to conservatives and liberals, Extremism Triumphant challenges each side to ponder its own claim to the moral high ground.