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Houghton Mifflin Company |
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Chancellorsville by Stephen W. Sears |
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Reviewed By Jack Bruno, #25313 |
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Copyright 1996 (Paperback reprint May, 1998) My interest in the American Civil War (ACW) began when I was in grade school and was given a Bruce Catton Book Called, "HEROES OF THE BLUE AND THE GRAY." Captivated by the Battles and the Personalities, I picked up whatever I could afford or find to quench my thirst for more knowledge of this dark period of American History. Putting my interest of the ACW on hold thru School/Marriage/Family, my interest peaked when I saw the Theatrical Release of "Gettysburg". It was only a Natural progression that my interest in this Battle delved me into the preceding Battles of Fredericksburg and most of all, Chancellorsville. Stephen W. Sears sets the Battle up perfectly with the end of the Fredericksburg Campaign and the installation of Hooker as Commander of the Army of the Potomac. Without giving much away, Lincoln wanted/needed a Victory very badly and pressed Gen. Hooker to deliver and soon. Hooker was a genius at organization and training, but as History proved, not much of a Battlefield Commander. Hooker came up with a very feasible plan for destroying the Army of Northern Virginia. Lee, without the aid of a few of Longstreets Brigades and James himself, two days march away, commanded 1st Corps while Jackson had the Second Corps. The ensuring invasion by Hooker started off badly with hard rain for days which held up reconnaissance and tipped the Union hand. In short, watching things develop in front of them, Lee/Jackson agreed to unleash what has become one of the most famous moves in the History of Warfare.........the march around the rear of their own lines, in secret and although observed briefly, a move never countered or acted on. This movement set up a brutal evening surprise assault on the Union right flank against the worst troops possible. The action this night (May 2, 1863) concludes with Jackson's wounding and ultimate death. However, Stuart replaces Jackson and gives a very good account of himself leading Infantry instead of Calvary. This absolutely captivating book is filled with battlefield maps as it is happening and aided by facts and interviews of soldiers of both sides. Pictures of most of the notables are included too. It is over 600 pages long and well worth your investment in money and time. Truly, this Battle was the Confederate High Tide and not to be put off if you have any interest in the ACW at all. As a side note, if you can .....watch/rent the Movie, "Gods and Generals". It gives you a clear understanding of what is taking place. PLUS, it features the most intense ACW Battle Action brought to the screen. Cheers and Great Reading!!! The book was purchased with my ever dwindling wallet and HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! |
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