Mr. Lincoln Goes to War
by William Marvel
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Book Summary Information
Author: William MarvelEdition: Hardcover
Audio: English (Original Language); English (Unknown); English (Published)
Published: 2006-05-10
ISBN: 0618583491
Number of pages: 432
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin
Book Reviews of Mr. Lincoln Goes to War
Book Review: Marvel Writes A Extraordinary History with Controversial and Intersting Opinions: Fascinating Book for Those with an Open MInd
Summary: 5 Stars
Marvel, as always, gives a fresh, objective look at the history of the Civil War. For those who have read his biography of Burnside and his great book on Lee's Retreat from Petersburg, you know that his research is well done lending a base to fascinating revelations contributing to his opinions of cause and effects. In Lincoln's case, Marvel presents that Lincoln's heavy handedness in Maryland, particularly the suspension of habeas corpus and the blatantly illegal arrest of politicians, was far more abusive then necessary, He argues further than Lincoln's aggressive reinforcement of Ft. Sumter contributed to armed resistance and solidifying the states that became the Confederacy. And further, Marvel argues that Lincoln's call for men from all states to put down the rebellion was reckless, drawing many of the Border States over to the confederacy. Controversial to some degree but the actions did occur and the results were the same as Marvel noted. But that's what makes the book fascinating, Marvel presents well documented facts and you may disagree with his point of view but the evidence is solid and the reader can interpret the outcome as he wishes. Further points of view, that many soldiers, particularly in the union, were suffering economic hardship that helped recruitment significantly and there is well presented evidence of that. Fascinating detail is on Lincoln's arrival in Washington through a potentially revolting Maryland requiring him to secretly board another train, the weakness of the capitol security bolstered by fragile forces, the self appointed General Lyon's rash actions that created southern resistance in Missouri, the clash at Bull Run and great detail about the union fiasco at Ball's Bluff that killed Lincoln's close friend Senator Baker resulting in the ridiculous and politically motivated arrest and incarceration of General Stone. Ball's Bluff lead to the abolitionist led committee on the conduct of the war, which was a very successful but brutal breaking of Union generals with democratic principals. Thus, the history is excellent, the opinions, particularly in the epilogue, are controversial and I do not agree with many of them such as a war being avoided as I think it was inevitable. I also think that the paranoia in Washington, not knowing who was friend or foe, contributed to the temporary crushing of the Constitution; however illegal it was during a national emergency. However, the facts and presentation is well done and there is nothing wrong with a good argument. In addition, Marvel captures his subjects quite well and the description of innocent General Stone's plight is quite sad, while the description of the audacious and irresponsible General Lyon, who Marvel describes as an "insubordinate, self righteous psychopath", seems to fit the man. Read the book and enjoy an intellectual challenge, a good debate gives a healthy outlook and has the potential to break the traditional view.
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