"150 years ago this spring the American Civil War finally ended after four years of bloodshed, turmoil, and heartaches uncountable. More than 700,000 young men lay dead, with tens of thousands more maimed, disabled, sick, or otherwise permanently incapacitated. Residents in many areas had lost their livelihoods, their homes and property, and beloved family members. Truly, the "Vacant Chair" was in evidence in many an abode.
Throughout the winter of 1864-65, it was clear to most observers that the North with its now overwhelming advantage in military numbers, resources, finances, and firepower would surely grind down the struggling Confederate forces. The questions were how soon and at what cost would the Union finally prevail?
Veteran author Joseph Wheelan examines the last few months of the terrible conflict in his excellent new book, Their Last Full Measure: The Final Days of the Civil War. The former Associated Press reporter and editor focuses on the uncertainty and dread of the average soldier in the field, who, while knowing the end was coming, nevertheless worried about his own future. Wheelan, the author of seven previous books, skillfully weaves a strong narrative which captures the pathos of the Southerners who faced an uncertain future, the nervous anticipation of Northerners who sensed victory but dreaded the final cost, the reactions of the press on both sides as they examined the ever changing news from the battlefields, and the politicians who had to shape the future course of a likely reunited country…"
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Amicalement
Armand
replicates a mortar schooner at Fort Jackson during the New Orleans campaign.
