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Shiloh, Battle of, Tenn., 1862 Books

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Wilbur F. (Wilbur Fisk) Crummer

With Grant at Fort Donelson, Shiloh and Vicksburg
 and an appreciation of General U. S. Grant

"With Grant at Fort Donelson, Shiloh and Vicksburg" by Wilbur F. Crummer is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book captures the personal experiences of the author, a soldier in the 45th Illinois Volunteers, during crucial battles of the American Civil War. It provides vivid depictions of the military campaigns led by General U.S. Grant and offers insights into the daily lives, struggles, and thoughts of young soldiers during this tumultuous period. The opening of the narrative introduces readers to two young soldiers, Will and Jim, stationed at Cairo, Illinois, in January 1862. They converse while on guard duty, expressing their eagerness for action as they sense that General Grant is preparing for an offensive—a theme supported by a vivid recollection of the events leading up to and including the pivotal battles of Fort Henry and Fort Donelson. Crummer sets the stage with rich detail about the harsh conditions faced by soldiers, the camaraderie among the troops, and the grim realities of war, including moments of humor amidst the struggle for survival.

Albert Dillahunty

Shiloh National Military Park, Tennessee

"Shiloh National Military Park, Tennessee" by Albert Dillahunty is a historical account written in the mid-20th century. This publication is part of a series of handbooks by the National Park Service, detailing various historical and archaeological sites within the national park system. The book specifically focuses on the Battle of Shiloh, which was a significant engagement during the American Civil War, highlighting its impact on the West's military landscape and its crucial outcomes for both Union and Confederate forces. The book provides a detailed narrative of the Battle of Shiloh, which occurred over two days, April 6 and 7, 1862. It begins with the context leading up to the battle, illustrating the movements and strategies of the Union and Confederate armies and the evolving tactical situation. The author elaborates on the chaotic experiences on the battlefield, describing critical moments and the notable figures involved, including Generals Ulysses S. Grant and Albert Sidney Johnston. Dillahunty recounts the heavy casualties sustained by both sides and how the battle's outcome foreshadowed the larger trajectory of the Civil War, ultimately reflecting on Shiloh's role in shaping military strategies and the public's perception of the war's brutal realities.

Warren Olney

"Shiloh" as Seen by a Private Soldier
 With Some Personal Reminiscences

"Shiloh" as Seen by a Private Soldier by Warren Olney is a historical account written during the late 19th century. It offers a unique perspective on the Battle of Shiloh, one of the first significant confrontations of the American Civil War, from the viewpoint of an ordinary soldier. The book delves into the experiences of the private soldiers who fought in the battle, contrasting their reality with that of high-ranking generals who often recorded their more glorified versions of events. In this account, Olney narrates the chaos, fear, and camaraderie that defined the battle through his own experiences as a Private in the 65th U.S. Colored Infantry. He describes the buildup to the battle, the initial shock of the Confederate surprise attack, and the resolve of the Union soldiers despite being caught unprepared. The narrative details the turmoil on the battlefield, the struggles of soldiers to rally in the face of overwhelming odds, and the impact of leadership on their morale. Olney's reflections reveal a deeper understanding of the war's human cost and a powerful message about the courage of the common soldier in a tumultuous time.

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