The Civil War Reader: 1862

From Library Journal In 1862, the unique nature of the Civil War was developing and its outcome still very much in question. This collection of 27 articles, compiled by Symonds (history, U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis; Stonewall of the West: Patrick Cleburne and the Civil War) offers a readable introduction to this pivotal period. Symonds's opening essay outlines the significance of the year and introduces essays on military topics that range from the technological innovations that made the Civil War more modern and deadly than its predecessors to the important battles to the political and military leaders who played essential roles in the struggle's outcome. Essay contributors include well-regarded war historians such as Pulitzer Prize winner James M. McPherson, Stephen W. Sears, and Geoffrey Perrett. A list of reliable web sites also appears. Well chosen and well written, the articles make an inviting introduction to the period, although they are, unfortunately, not footnoted. Recommended for general readers and larger public libraries. Theresa R. McDevitt, Indiana Univ. of Pennsylvania Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.