Subject
United States -- History -- Civil War, 1861-1865 -- Biography Books
Best books
L. P. (Linus Pierpont) Brockett
Woman's Work in the Civil War: A Record of Heroism, Patriotism, and Patience
"Woman's Work in the Civil War: A Record of Heroism, Patriotism, and Patience" by L. P. Brokett and Mrs. Mary C. Vaughan is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book focuses on the significant contributions made by women during the Civil War, highlighting their unwavering dedication and selfless service in various roles, particularly as nurses, caregivers, and organizers of aid societies. Through their courage and hard work, these women played a crucial part in supporting soldiers and their families, embodying a remarkable spirit of patriotism and resilience. The opening of the text introduces the reader to the motivations behind the compilation of this important work. The author shares his journey begun in 1863, driven by admiration for the sacrifices of women in the war effort. He reflects on their indispensable roles as caregivers to the wounded, organizers of supplies, and relentless supporters of soldiers, recounting the countless acts of kindness and bravery that defined their contributions. Prominent historical figures like Clara Barton are mentioned, along with many other unnamed female heroes who worked tirelessly despite personal risks and hardships. The introduction sets the stage for a detailed exploration of individual stories that celebrate these remarkable women's dedication during one of the most tumultuous periods in American 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.
William Wood
Captains of the Civil War: A Chronicle of the Blue and the Gray
"Captains of the Civil War: A Chronicle of the Blue and the Gray" by William Wood is a historical account published in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the early events of the American Civil War, highlighting the key military leaders and their battles, particularly emphasizing the conflict between the Union and Confederate forces. It provides insights into the complexities of the war, including political undercurrents and military strategies, focusing on personalities like General Robert E. Lee and Major Anderson. The opening of the chronicle expertly sets the stage for the ornate tapestry of narratives that follow, delving into the backdrop of secession and political maneuvering leading to the war. It begins with the tensions surrounding Fort Sumter in South Carolina, where Major Robert Anderson, the Union commander, makes a stand against the mounting Confederate forces. Wood details the dynamics of the conflict, including pivotal moments such as the capture of Fort Sumter and how subsequent engagements unfolded in Charleston and Pensacola, rapidly escalating tensions in the region. The narrative also touches on key figures like W.T. Sherman and the emotional turmoil of leaders like Robert E. Lee during this uncertain time, establishing a gripping framework for the exploration of the Civil War's early years.
Harriet Beecher Stowe
Men of Our Times; Or, Leading Patriots of the Day Being narratives of the lives and deeds of statesmen, generals, and orators. Including biographical sketches and anecdotes of Lincoln, Grant, Garrison, Sumner, Chase, Wilson, Greeley, Farragut, Andrew, Colfax, Stanton, Douglass, Buckingham, Sherman, Sheridan, Howard, Phillips and Beecher.
"Men of Our Times; Or, Leading Patriots of the Day" by Harriet Beecher Stowe is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work features narratives of the lives and deeds of prominent figures such as statesmen, generals, and orators from the era surrounding the American Civil War. Notable individuals like Abraham Lincoln and Ulysses S. Grant are included, showcasing their contributions to the political landscape of their time. The opening of the book sets the context by emphasizing the significance of the character and moral influence of these leading men during a tumultuous period in American history. It highlights the collective struggle for principles of equality and liberty that not only impacted the nation but resonated globally, framing the Civil War as a pivotal moment for oppressed classes worldwide. Stowe expresses a desire to honor these figures not just as historical figures but as exemplars of moral courage and fortitude, reflecting on their formative influences and the societal conditions that shaped their paths to leadership.
Ellison Capers
Confederate Military History - Volume 5 (of 12) A Library of Confederate States History
"Confederate Military History - Volume 5 (of 12)" by Ellison Capers is a historical volume published in 1899. Part of a comprehensive 12-volume series edited by former Confederate Brigadier General Clement A. Evans, this volume focuses specifically on South Carolina's role in the Civil War. Written by Brigadier General Ellison Capers, it examines the state's military personalities, battles, and campaigns during the Confederate period, offering a Southern perspective on one state's wartime experience.
Ulysses S. (Ulysses Simpson) Grant
Memoirs of the Union's Three Great Civil War Generals
"Memoirs of the Union's Three Great Civil War Generals" by Ulysses S. Grant et al. is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work consists largely of personal reflections and recollections by Ulysses S. Grant, as well as contributions from fellow generals William T. Sherman and Philip H. Sheridan. The memoirs cover significant events of their military careers, particularly during the tumultuous years of the American Civil War. The opening of the memoirs presents Grant's preface, where he reflects on the motivations and challenges he faced while writing his memoirs. He discusses his initial reluctance to enter into public writing, the circumstances that led him to change his mind—including a request from a magazine editor during a period of financial difficulty—and his concern about fairness to his fellow soldiers, both Union and Confederate. Grant emphasizes the importance of truthfulness in recounting his experiences and expresses a desire to avoid doing injustice to anyone, acknowledging the limits of his memory in narrating the vast complexities of the Civil War. The narrative begins with his ancestry and early life, setting the stage for his eventual rise to prominence as a key military figure.
John Esten Cooke
A Life of Gen. Robert E. Lee
"A Life of Gen. Robert E. Lee" by John Esten Cooke is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the life and character of Robert E. Lee, focusing on his military career and personal attributes that earned him the admiration of his peers, both friends and foes alike. It aims to portray Lee as a man of exceptional integrity, whose dedication to duty and service made him an enduring figure in American history. The opening of the biography introduces the esteemed character of Robert E. Lee, highlighting the widespread respect and admiration he garnered across political divides. It emphasizes his military genius, moral rectitude, and humility, along with the personal struggles he faced during the Civil War, particularly when deciding to side with his home state of Virginia. The text underscores how Lee's dedication to his duty transcended personal ambition, illustrating his commitment to the principles he valued, even in the face of significant adversity. John Esten Cooke notes the profound impact of Lee’s upbringing and background, providing a glimpse into the influential family ties that shaped his character, setting the stage for a more detailed exploration of Lee's life and military career throughout the book.
William Franklin Gore Shanks
Personal Recollections of Distinguished Generals
"Personal Recollections of Distinguished Generals" by William Franklin Gore Shanks is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The book aims to provide insights into the personalities and characteristics of notable military leaders from the American Civil War, primarily focusing on their human qualities beyond their military prowess. The opening of the work sets the stage for Shanks's exploration of the subject, beginning with a preface that outlines his intent to convey a more rounded depiction of these generals. He emphasizes the complexity of characters like William Tecumseh Sherman, who is described as both brilliant and eccentric, embodying an intriguing mix of strength and vulnerability. Shanks notes that he will address the generals in "undress uniform," which suggests a more personal and informal portrayal, aiming to capture not only their military achievements but also their personal quirks and failings. This introductory portion hints at a narrative rich with anecdotes and reflections, inviting readers to appreciate the multifaceted nature of these historical figures.
Theron Wilber Haight
Three Wisconsin Cushings A sketch of the lives of Howard B., Alonzo H. and William B. Cushing, children of a pioneer family of Waukesha County
"Three Wisconsin Cushings" by Theron Wilber Haight is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the lives of Howard B., Alonzo H., and William B. Cushing, three brothers from a pioneering family in Wisconsin, who became notable figures during the Civil War. Through their stories, the book likely explores themes of sacrifice, valor, and the familial bonds that were forged in the face of adversity. At the start of the narrative, the author lays a foundational context about the emigration of the Cushing family from New England, driven by dissatisfaction and hardship following the War for Independence. This historical backdrop sets the stage for understanding the resilience displayed by the Cushing brothers as their mother navigates the challenges of frontier life in Wisconsin. The opening portions delve into the family's pioneering experiences, highlighting their journey and establishing the purpose of the book: to honor the Cushing brothers' contributions and legacy as they rise to prominence amid the tumult of the Civil War.
John McAllister Schofield
Forty-Six Years in the Army
"Forty-Six Years in the Army" by John McAllister Schofield is a historical account written during the late 19th century. This memoir chronicles Schofield's extensive military career, reflecting on his experiences and the events of the American Civil War, as well as his observations on military leadership and education. The book serves as Schofield's contribution to history, aiming to provide impartial insights for future historians, while also detailing significant personal moments and interactions with notable military figures of his time. The opening of the work introduces Schofield's background, revealing his early life, academic journey at West Point, and the challenges he faced, including a dismissal from the Academy that he successfully appealed. He recounts significant influences and friendships with prominent figures such as Robert E. Lee and future Civil War generals while highlighting the critical lessons learned during his military training. The narrative sets the stage for Schofield's reflections on warfare, leadership, and the role of officers in the army, establishing a foundation for his experiences that will unfold in the subsequent chapters.
Andrew Brown
Company K, Twentieth Regiment, Illinois Volunteer Infantry Roster and Record, April 24, 1861-July 16, 1865
"Company K, Twentieth Regiment, Illinois Volunteer Infantry" by Andrew Brown is a historical account published in the late 19th century. This book serves as a roster and record of a specific military company from Illinois that fought in the Civil War. It documents the soldiers of Company K, detailing their enlistments, battles, and fates, creating a tribute to their sacrifices and experiences during the war. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the lives of the men who served in Company K, presenting short biographical sketches of various soldiers. Each entry typically includes the soldier's name, place of enlistment, significant battles participated in, wounds sustained, and post-war life. Notable events, such as the Battle of Shiloh and the Siege of Vicksburg, are recounted through personal anecdotes and experiences, illustrating the hardships and camaraderie shared among the soldiers. Furthermore, the text reflects on the impact of the war on their lives long after they returned home, providing readers with insights into the challenges faced by veterans of the Civil War.
James Harrison Wilson
Heroes of the Great Conflict; Life and Services of William Farrar Smith, Major General, United States Volunteer in the Civil War
"Heroes of the Great Conflict; Life and Services of William Farrar Smith, Major General, United States Volunteer in the Civil War" by Wilson is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book centers around the life and military career of Major General William Farrar Smith, detailing his significant contributions during the American Civil War and the challenges he faced within the military hierarchy. The opening of the book introduces William Farrar Smith, charting his early life, education at West Point, and his rise through the military ranks. It highlights his friendships with prominent Civil War figures and sets the stage for the examination of his military career during the war. The author emphasizes the importance of personal accounts and documentation, suggesting that a more nuanced understanding of Smith’s character, motivations, and the complexities of military command is crucial, as opposed to relying solely on official reports. Through this lens, the narrative aims to shed light on not only Smith’s achievements but also the political intricacies and interpersonal dynamics that affected his career trajectory.
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