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Generals -- United States -- Biography Books
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Ulysses S. (Ulysses Simpson) Grant
Personal Memoirs of U. S. Grant, Complete
"Personal Memoirs of U. S. Grant, Complete" by Ulysses S. Grant is an autobiography written in 1884-1885. Racing against terminal throat cancer and financial ruin from a Ponzi scheme, the former president and Civil War general chronicled his military campaigns through the Mexican-American War and Civil War. Mark Twain intervened to publish the work, creating an innovative marketing campaign that transformed Grant's final act into one of the nineteenth century's bestselling books, saving his family from destitution while establishing an enduring literary legacy.
William T. (William Tecumseh) Sherman
Memoirs of General William T. Sherman — Complete
"Memoirs of General William T. Sherman — Complete" by William T. Sherman is a historical account created during the late 19th century. The text offers a personal perspective on the American Civil War from the viewpoint of one of its prominent military leaders, General Sherman, while also providing insights into his early life, military career, and reflections on the conflicts in which he participated. The opening of the memoir sets the stage for Sherman's recounting of his life experiences, emphasizing his role as a witness to pivotal events in American history rather than presenting a comprehensive history of the Civil War. Sherman describes the lack of satisfactory historical documentation available to the public shortly after the war's conclusion, expressing an intent to share his memories and observations to assist future historians. He discusses his formative years, the background of his family, and the influences that shaped his character, establishing a personal connection with readers that enhances the understanding of his military strategies and decisions in later chapters.
Philip Henry Sheridan
Personal Memoirs of P. H. Sheridan, General, United States Army — Complete
"Personal Memoirs of P. H. Sheridan, General, United States Army — Complete" by Philip Henry Sheridan is a historical account written during the late 19th century. The book details the life and military career of General Sheridan, emphasizing his experiences during pivotal moments in American history, particularly the Civil War. Sheridan's narrative aims to provide an authentic recount of his contributions to the nation while maintaining humility about his role and avoiding personal glorification. The opening of this memoir introduces readers to Sheridan's early life, starting with his ancestry and family background. He describes his parents' immigration to America from Ireland, his childhood in Ohio, and the challenges his family faced as settlers. The text outlines his educational experiences and his ambition to become a soldier, culminating in his appointment to West Point. Sheridan also touches on his military training, including hazing and competition with peers, which sets the stage for his future achievements in the army. As a whole, the beginning of the memoir establishes the foundations of Sheridan's character and aspirations, blending personal anecdotes with historical context to provide insight into his formative years.
Robert E. (Robert Edward) Lee
Recollections and Letters of General Robert E. Lee
"Recollections and Letters of General Robert E. Lee" by Robert E. Lee's son is a historical account likely written in the late 19th century. This work provides an intimate look into the life and character of General Robert E. Lee through the eyes of his son, detailing his military career, personal experiences, and family life. At the start of the book, the narrative begins with vivid recollections of the author's father’s return from the Mexican War, painting a picture of young Robert E. Lee’s admiration and awe for his father. The opening portion discusses personal anecdotes, including family interactions and pets, which highlight Lee's affection for his family. It also outlines notable military milestones of Lee's early career, such as his roles in the U.S. Army and the challenges faced during the turbulent period leading up to the Civil War. Through heartfelt reflections and letters, the text sets the stage for understanding Lee not just as a military leader, but as a devoted family man influenced deeply by his experiences both at home and on the battlefield.
John Gregory Bourke
On the Border with Crook
"On the Border with Crook" by John Gregory Bourke is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work details the experiences of Captain Bourke and his fellow soldiers during their military service on the American frontier, focusing on the campaigns led by General George Crook against the Apache tribes. The narrative offers insights into the challenges faced by the army, the relationships with Native Americans, and the vivid landscapes of the southwestern United States. At the start of the book, Bourke establishes the setting at Old Camp Grant, Arizona, portraying a vivid and often harsh military life. He introduces readers to daily routines, the difficult living conditions for the troops, and the surrounding landscapes filled with dangerous wildlife. As he recounts life at the camp, Bourke shares humorous anecdotes about soldiering, the unique flora and fauna of Arizona, and the cultural intricacies of interactions with the Apaches. The narrative hints at future conflicts and adventures, setting up a rich tapestry of frontier life against the backdrop of military history.
Ulysses S. (Ulysses Simpson) Grant
Project Gutenberg Edition of The Memoirs of Four Civil War Generals
"Project Gutenberg Edition of The Memoirs of Four Civil War Generals" by Grant et al. is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work provides a collection of memoirs from four prominent generals of the American Civil War: Ulysses S. Grant, William Tecumseh Sherman, Philip Sheridan, and John A. Logan. It offers insights into their personal experiences, military strategies, and reflections on the war, making it a valuable resource for those interested in American history and military affairs. The opening of the memoirs introduces the structure of the book, detailing the contents, which are organized into separate volumes for each general. Ulysses S. Grant begins by reflecting on his early life, including his ancestry and experiences at West Point, giving readers an understanding of his background prior to the Civil War. Each chapter outlined in the content summary hints at a comprehensive narrative that combines personal anecdotes with significant historical events, setting the stage for the generals' accounts, their military careers, and their views on the intense struggles of the Civil War.
George A. (George Armstrong) Custer
My life on the plains : $b or, personal experiences with Indians
"My Life on the Plains: or, Personal Experiences with Indians" by George A. Custer is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book recounts Custer's personal experiences and observations while navigating the American Plains and interacting with Native American tribes. It aims to provide insights into the geography, wildlife, and the challenges posed by both the land and its inhabitants, ultimately reflecting on the complex relationship between settlers and the Indigenous peoples. At the start of the narrative, Custer lays the groundwork for his experiences by describing the geography of the Great Plains, dispelling myths surrounding its barrenness. He contrasts common perceptions with the actual richness of the land and its varied wildlife, including the buffalo. He also touches on the impact of Indian tribes on frontier settlements while acknowledging their complex cultural identity. Custer's observations blend personal anecdotes with larger reflections on the land and its peoples, setting the stage for more detailed accounts of his military endeavors and encounters with Native Americans throughout the book.
Anson Mills
My Story
"My Story" by Anson Mills is a memoir written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the life of Brigadier General Anson Mills, detailing his experiences from childhood through his military career, including significant events such as the Civil War and his time serving on the frontier. The narrative offers insights into the challenges faced by early American pioneers and the complexities of military life during tumultuous periods in U.S. history. The opening of the memoir begins with Anson Mills reflecting on his ancestry and the hardships encountered by his family as early settlers in Indiana. He recounts his father's journey to the West, his upbringing in a pioneer household, and the privations of early life, including the lack of modern conveniences. Mills shares anecdotes about his childhood, education, and the development of his character through various experiences, setting the stage for a life dedicated to service and leadership. As he transitions to his formative years at West Point and into his military career, the groundwork is laid for the trials and tribulations that will characterize his later life.
William Gilmore Simms
The Life of Francis Marion
"The Life of Francis Marion" by William Gilmore Simms is a historical biography written in the mid-19th century. The book focuses on the life and exploits of Francis Marion, a prominent figure in South Carolina's Revolutionary War history, known for his strategic prowess and guerrilla warfare against British forces. Simms aims to illuminate Marion's contributions to the Southern campaign, often overshadowed by more prominent figures. The opening of the biography introduces us to the context of Marion's life, detailing his Huguenot ancestry and the severe hardships faced by early settlers in South Carolina. Simms paints a vivid picture of Marion's character and upbringing, emphasizing the influence of his surroundings and community—a blend of resilience and courage forged through adversity. The narrative transitions into Marion's early exploits, establishing him as a figure driven by patriotism and a sense of duty, which sets the stage for his later prominence in the revolutionary struggle. The book thus begins with an exploration of Marion’s roots and the historical backdrop that shaped his life and career.
John Marshall
The Life of George Washington: A Linked Index to the Project Gutenberg Editions
"The Life of George Washington: A Linked Index to the Project Gutenberg Editions" by John Marshall is a comprehensive biography written during the 19th century. The book chronicles the life and achievements of George Washington, the first President of the United States and a central figure in the American Revolutionary War. Its detailed exploration of Washington's life provides a historical account of his influences on the nation’s founding. The book is structured into multiple volumes, systematically covering significant events from Washington's early life, military career, and political achievements. It discusses his leadership during crucial battles of the Revolution, his presidency, and the challenges he faced in unifying the young nation. Ultimately, Marshall presents Washington as a pivotal leader in America's quest for independence and democracy, highlighting his character, decisions, and the legacy he left behind. Each volume delves into Washington's relationships with other historical figures, giving readers insight into the dynamics of colonial and early American society.
William Dobein James
A Sketch of the Life of Brig. Gen. Francis Marion and a History of His Brigade
"A Sketch of the Life of Brig. Gen. Francis Marion and a History of His Brigade" by William Dobein James is a historical account written in the early 19th century. The text focuses on the life of Brigadier General Francis Marion, an important figure in the American Revolutionary War, particularly noted for his guerrilla warfare tactics in South Carolina against British forces and their loyalist supporters. The opening of the book sets the stage for an exploration of Marion's early life, his ancestry as a French Protestant, and the challenges faced during the Revolutionary War. The author reflects on his personal experiences as a member of Marion's militia, sharing how he transitioned from a schoolboy to a soldier at a young age amidst the turmoil of war. The subsequent chapters promise to delve into Marion's strategic exploits, character, and the formation of his brigade, providing a detailed narrative of events that are often overlooked in conventional histories of the war.
Ulysses S. (Ulysses Simpson) Grant
Personal Memoirs of U. S. Grant — Volume 2
"Personal Memoirs of U. S. Grant — Volume 2" by Ulysses S. Grant is an autobiography written in 1884-1885. The work chronicles Grant's military career during the Mexican–American War and Civil War, written as the dying president battled terminal throat cancer and personal bankruptcy from a Ponzi scheme. Published by Mark Twain after Grant's death, the memoirs became a 19th-century bestseller through an unprecedented marketing campaign. Critics have praised Grant's lean, intelligent prose and his candid depiction of battlefield struggles and internal Army conflicts.
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