Subject
United States. Army -- Military life Books
Best books
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.
Martha Summerhayes
Vanished Arizona: Recollections of the Army Life by a New England Woman
"Vanished Arizona: Recollections of the Army Life by a New England Woman" by Martha Summerhayes is a historical account reflecting the experiences of a woman in the U.S. Army during the late 19th century. The narrative chronicles the author’s journey as she relocates from the comforts of New England to the rugged landscapes of Arizona, navigating both the challenges of military life and the history of the American frontier. The opening of the book sets the stage for Martha Summerhayes’ unique perspective as a New England woman adapting to life as an army wife. Beginning in Germany, she shares her fascination with military culture and the army life she yearns to engage in, ultimately leading to her marriage to a second lieutenant. She vividly recounts her initial experiences with army housekeeping, her unexpected difficulties with cooking and logistics, and the profound differences between her previous life and the demanding realities of army life in Arizona. As the story unfolds, the challenges multiply, hinting at adventures and hardships she will face in the harsh terrain and difficult environment of the American Southwest.
William Llewellyn Adams
Exploits and adventures of a soldier ashore and afloat
"Exploits and Adventures of a Soldier Ashore and Afloat" by William Llewellyn Adams is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The narrative recounts the experiences of a soldier over a ten-year military career, highlighting his adventures both on land and at sea during the late 19th to early 20th centuries. The author aims to capture the essence of military life, touching on themes of camaraderie, bravery, and the diverse landscapes he encountered, from bustling cities to battlefields. The opening of the book includes a preface where the author expresses his intent to share authentic experiences without embellishment. He reflects on his time serving under “Old Glory,” hinting at a range of captivating stories he will tell in the ensuing chapters. In the first chapter, titled "Campaign of the 'Governor’s Troop,' Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry," the narrative begins with the excitement surrounding the Spanish-American War, providing an overview of troop mobilization, training at Mt. Gretna, and the initial fervor among young soldiers ready for battle. Adams introduces various characters from his troop, offers glimpses of military life, and sets the tone for an adventurous chronicle filled with both hardships and lighthearted moments amid the backdrop of war.
Frances Marie Antoinette Mack Roe
Army Letters from an Officer's Wife, 1871-1888
"Army Letters from an Officer's Wife, 1871-1888" by Frances Marie Antoinette Mack Roe is a collection of personal letters written during the late 19th century that chronicles the experiences of an army officer’s wife living in the American West. The letters provide a vivid depiction of life on the frontier, detailing encounters with Native Americans, the harsh living conditions of military posts, and the daily challenges faced by women in that era. The beginning of the collection introduces the author as she arrives at Fort Lyon, Colorado, following an arduous journey. Her initial letters express discomfort and uncertainty about her new surroundings, filled with menacing towns and a lack of female companionship. As she settles in, she describes the peculiarities of army life, such as the interactions with soldiers and the customs of the officers, providing a humorous yet insightful commentary on her social experiences. From awkward moments at formal dinners to the excitement of seeing wild buffalo, the opening sets the stage for a life filled with adventure, adaptation, and the trials of living in a harsh but captivating landscape.
Henry A. (Henry Anson) Castle
The Army Mule, and Other War Sketches
"The Army Mule, and Other War Sketches" by Henry A. Castle is a collection of humorous war sketches written in the late 19th century. The work offers a satirical take on the role of the Army Mule during the Civil War, presenting the mule as an undervalued participant in the military, while mocking the self-aggrandizing attitudes of some soldiers. Through vivid imagery and playful language, Castle explores themes of loyalty, endurance, and the often-overlooked contributions of animals in wartime. The opening of the book introduces the Army Mule as a central figure, emphasizing its longevity and resilience, while juxtaposing it against the boastful nature of certain soldiers who, though once mere recruits, now revel in inflated tales of heroism. Castle employs a comedic tone to highlight how the mule, often regarded as a mere beast of burden, deserves recognition for its crucial support during the war. He creatively argues for the mule's significance, portraying it as an underappreciated hero in the conflict, contrasting sharply with the self-importance of human soldiers.
Augustus Meyers
Ten years in the ranks, U.S. Army
"Ten Years in the Ranks, U.S. Army" by Augustus Meyers is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The narrative chronicles the author's ten years of service in the United States Army during a formative period of American history, focusing on his experiences as a young soldier on the frontier and through the Civil War. It provides an insight into military life, detailing daily routines, training, and the camaraderie among soldiers, especially from the perspective of a young recruit. The opening of the book sets the stage for Meyers’ journey, beginning with his enlistment at just over twelve years old, supported by his widowed mother. He describes his arrival at Governor’s Island, detailing the stark contrast between his expectations and the reality of military life. Through vivid descriptions, he captures the life of a musician in the ranks, from learning to play the fife to his interactions with fellow soldiers. Meyers lays bare the challenges he faced, including the strict discipline, the rudimentary living conditions, and the friendships formed among young recruits, all while hinting at the broader socio-political landscape of the era that would eventually lead him into the Civil War.
Elizabeth Bacon Custer
"Boots and Saddles"; Or, Life in Dakota with General Custer
"Boots and Saddles; Or Life in Dakota with General Custer" by Elizabeth B. Custer is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book provides an intimate glimpse into the everyday life of an army family stationed in the Dakota territories during a tumultuous period in American history. It primarily revolves around the experiences of Elizabeth Custer as she navigates the challenges and adventures of military life while accompanying her husband, General George Custer, on various campaigns. At the start of the narrative, the author recalls her early encounters with General Custer and their subsequent marriage, interspersed with their military life and relocations across different states. The opening chapters detail their transition to Dakota, highlighting the stark contrasts between the comforts of civilization and the rugged, isolating conditions of military outposts. Through vivid descriptions, Elizabeth conveys her mixed emotions—ranging from excitement to anxiety—regarding their new station and the harsh realities of frontier life, including a particularly treacherous blizzard that tests their resilience and character amidst a community of soldiers and Indigenous tribes. The storytelling is warm and personal, giving readers a sense of the historical context and the emotional landscape of life on the American frontier.
J. P. (James Perry) Cole
Military Instructors Manual
"Military Instructors Manual" by Captain James P. Cole and Major Oliver Schoonmaker is a military training guide written during the early 20th century, likely around World War I. The book serves as a resource for military officers, particularly those involved in instructing new recruits in basic military skills, strategies, and command principles. The opening of the manual lays out the purpose and intent behind its creation, emphasizing the need for clear, condensed military instruction to prepare officers for immediate and effective action. The authors note the challenges of modern military training, where officers must quickly assimilate vast amounts of information and apply it to teaching their troops. The introduction outlines the structure of the manual, mentioning a detailed table of contents that includes topics ranging from drill regulations and physical training to first aid and trench warfare, indicating the comprehensive approach taken to cover various aspects of military operations and training.
Ira L. (Ira Louis) Reeves
Bamboo Tales
"Bamboo Tales" by Ira L. Reeves is a collection of military stories written in the late 19th century. The book compiles narratives that provide insight into the experiences of American soldiers during the Philippine-American War, showcasing their challenges, camaraderie, and encounters. The tales depict various characters, such as Lieutenant John Buestom and Private Leonard Dresel, offering a vivid portrayal of life in wartime, complete with humor, bravery, and tragedy. The opening portion of the book begins with a translation of a Spanish officer's diary, detailing the hardships faced by soldiers during military campaigns in Luzon. It describes their arduous journey through difficult terrains and engagements with enemy forces, highlighting the chaos and casualties of war. Additionally, the narrative provides glimpses of individual soldiers' experiences, such as the controversial actions of "Cougar" Daly and a poignant request made by a dying Spaniard. This combination of diary entries and fictional storytelling sets the stage for a deeper exploration of soldier life in the Philippines, blending historical context with personal tales of valor and humanity.
Irving Crump
Conscript 2989: Experiences of a Drafted Man
"Conscript 2989: Experiences of a Drafted Man" by Irving Crump is a semi-autobiographical account written during the early 20th century, specifically around the time of World War I. This work captures the experiences of a conscripted soldier navigating the initial days of military life, reflecting on camaraderie, humor, and the trials of such an abrupt transition. The tone suggests a blend of levity and seriousness as the protagonist grapples with homesickness and the challenges of conformity in the ranks. The opening of the narrative introduces the main character, identified by his conscription number, 2989, as he begins his journey through army life. He shares his apprehensions about becoming a soldier, observing the diverse backgrounds of his fellow recruits, and humorously recounts the chaos and confusion of his first days in the barracks. The initial entries illustrate a mix of nervousness, mundane tasks, and camaraderie forged through shared experiences, alongside humorous reflections on the absurdities of military life. As he adapts to his new environment, the protagonist's observations reveal both the daunting aspects of training and the unexpectedly uplifting moments that enhance the bond among the soldiers.
R. H. (Robert Henderson) McKay
Little Pills, an Army Story Being Some Experiences of a United States Army Medical Officer on the Frontier Nearly a Half Century Ago
"Little Pills, an Army Story" by R. H. McKay is a historical memoir written in the early 20th century. The book recounts the experiences of the author, a former Acting Assistant Surgeon in the United States Army, as he served on the frontier nearly fifty years earlier, during a time when the vast wilderness was being tamed by civilization. The narrative captures the author's observations and interactions while stationed at various military posts, including San Antonio and Fort Craig, through his lens as a medical officer amidst the complexities of army life and frontier challenges. The opening of the memoir details McKay's reflections on his motivation to write these experiences for his children, illustrating the contrast between the past and a rapidly changing contemporary world. He describes the rigorous examination he underwent to join the army, leading to his assignment in the Department of the Missouri. As he navigates through military life, he vividly depicts the structure of army society, his impressions of different officers, and the stark realities of the frontier, including encounters with civilians and Native Americans. Themes of duty, service, and the ruggedness of frontier life emerge as McKay sets the stage for the many stories and reflections to come in his narrative.
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