Jeffry D. Wert

I almost gave up half way through. Up to that point, it is more narrative and little analysis. I wanted detailed description of Stuart’s tactics and cavalry methods. But I said to myself I have to read through Gettysburg to see what the author says about Stuart’s raid. I’m glad I did, because the second half was far more interesting and informative. Stuart was such a conflicting character: vain and ambitious but devoted and fearless in battle. Loved the attention of the ladies but was faithful to his wife and children. Partied, danced and sang but never touched alcohol. In the end, he was of great service to Lee, the Army of Northern Virginia and the South. This book does a good job of conveying the richness of Stuart’s life and service.… (mer)

I finished reading this book while traveling to the Grand Canyon.

In it, we learn of the defensive posture of most of the generals for the Union army, who were unwilling to commit to offensive action, and thus often failed to win, but simply avoided losses. This made the war much longer than it would have been with more aggressive generals on the Union side.

There is little information about the confederate side, and almost nothing about anything other than the army of the Ptomac.

This is a detailed book for those who are into the details of the civil war. For the rest of us, it is interesting, but I kept wanting to get to the punch line.… (mer)