An author's first book presents many problems for the reading public. Since histories do not populate bookstores, we make our buying decision based on title, cover art and the press release, not the best of guides. Winners are rare; losers are more common with OK being the majority. Having spent twenty to forty dollars for OK is not the nicest of feeling. I purchased this book based on the title and deep interest in James Longstreet. Expecting an OK, I am very happy to report this is a winner!
James Longstreet is one of the more controversial Southern generals. Very few are neutral when talking about the man. Both his actions during and after the war-generated controversy. The passage of time has done nothing to diminish the controversy surrounding him. Longstreet's actions in the West are an important part of the controversy, with both sides finding reasons to applaud or condemned him. The author, without talking sides, has written a comprehensive history of this period that is intelligent, accurate and very readable.
First, we are shown Longstreet's association with JE Johnston, Louis Wigfall and Jefferson Davis impact the western campaign. This foundation is vital in understand Longstreet's role in the anti-Bragg faction and in Davis' mishandling of these problems. This is put into context with the readiness of army officers to bypass the chain of command and the use of important political figures. Longstreet was used to this and was no different than his contemporizes when he took part in this.
Second, we have a very good history of I Corps operations in Chattooga and East Tennessee. This is an under reported area which the author places in both a military and political context. The reasons these operations failed are complex, interconnected and not limited to James Longstreet.
Last, are the Jenkins/Law/Robertson/McLaws problems. Longstreet is not the innocent victim here. Much of the Jenkins Law fiasco is of his making. His role in the problem with McLaws is less clear and Braxton Bragg's action in Richmond muddies the waters. Robertson is less detailed than the others are but was settled with fewer problems. Braxton Bragg's influence with Jefferson Davies made these problems worse and required the intervention of Robert E. Lee.
This is a balanced and fair account of this period. The author is very careful not to take sides giving the reader the information and allowing them to decide. This excellent informative and readable book is a valuable addition to my library.
A word about the book's physical appearance and maps. I found the book's presentation to be mediocre. I am not sure if they had printing problems or a decided to try for an antiquated look. However, title pages appear poorly printed. The binding is not up to most current history books. It is not poorly done but could be much better. Maps are very basic and at the campaign level, meaning engagements do not have maps. While the maps are sufficient, it requires work to use them. I did not reduce my rating of the book because of this. This is a problem for Texas A&M University Press not the author.