General John Buford: A Military Biography, is written by Edward Longacre and is published by Combined Books. A hardcover volume, it costs $24.95 and has 272 pages, which include 16 illustrations and 6 maps. 0-938289-46-2.
The film Gettysburg introduced the general public to Union cavalry leader John Buford and his key role on the first day of the battle. Using tactics from the Indian Wars and earlier operations in Virginia, Buford dismounted his men for more accurate fire, remounted them to change position when necessary, and later forced advancing troops to halt with the threat of a massed cavalry charge.
No full-length biography of the general has ever been written until now. Civil War cavalry authority Edward Longacre has combed family records, West Point cadet files, and the National Archives to produce what is destined to be a classic American military biography. The book features include:
- The only detailed account of Buford's role in the Sioux Campaign of 1855, and the campaign's influence on Civil War cavalry tactics.
- Comprehensive coverage of all Buford's engagements in the Civil War both mounted and dismounted; sure to cause some rethinking among gamers and re-enactors.
- The most complete account of the crucial actions of Buford's cavalry on the first day of Gettysburg.
Edward Longacre is the author of the classic work The Cavalry at Gettysberg, which won the Fletcher Pratt Award. He appeared on "Civil War Journal" in the "Union Cavalry" episode, and served as an advisor to actor Sam Elliott, who played General John Buford in the film Gettysburg.
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