The Civil War Years: A Day-By-Day Chronicle

"The Civil War Years" is, as the subtitle indicates, A Day-byDay Chronicle of the Life of a Nation during its greatest trial. The Prologue gives the background to the main factors which were important in the war. Thereafter, the body gives an entry of events for every day from January 1, 1861 to May 30, 1865.Each month begins with a summary of the situation as it existed at the beginning of the month and a brief explanation of the trends which played out during the month. The daily entries follow thereafter.The entries cover the gamut of participants in the war. Political, military and naval leaders share space with the diaries of enlisted men and civilians. Author Robert Denney treats us to the opportunity of following the lives of individual diarists throughout the war. Prominent among them are John S. Jackman of Kentucky's "Orphan Brigade" which could not return to their Union occupied home state and Lucius Barber of the 15th Illinois Volunteer Infantry.Barber's entries were of particular interest to me as my great-grand-father, Patrick R. Nealon, was also a member of the 15th. As I read Barber's entries I felt that I was able to get an insight into what Patrick went though during his service. Although his name was never mentioned, I always wondered if he was involved in any of the reported acts of bravery or mischief. There were some thing which I was surprised to learn about the service of the 15th. I did not know that they were only held prisoners for 47 days and that the did return to combat after their parole. The story of their participation in the Grand Review was another surprise for me.All in all, this is an excellent example of the popular history of the Civil War, which will provide knowledge and enjoyment for any student of the that conflict.

In depth recovery of personal papers provides a real look into the lives of the men and women who lived the war

This is with out a doubt the best overview of the Civil War and the events leading into and through the war. The views from troops on both sides as well as the leaders of both the military and political make this an abslute must read for all interested.

This book is the absolute best day by day history of the Civil War that I have ever encountered. It makes you feel as though you are there and able to relive the actual day's with the soldiers and commanding officers. Every care has been taken to cover detail and events as they took place. I would love to see another published dealing with the Civil War Hospitals by the same author.Mr Denney excels in his field. Thank You for a GREAT book and information contained therein.

This book puts you right on the front lines and in the hearts of some of the soldiers with their personal letters and diaries. Also, the overview of the military strategies helps place the action. A good addition to any historic library, and a good character study because of all the intimate details.