The Picket Line Reviews:

The Shiloh Campaign


The Shiloh Campaign, March-April 1862, revised edition, is written by David G. Martin and is part of the "Great Campaigns" series published by Combined Books. A hardcover volume, it costs $24.95 and has 256 pages, which include 50 illustrations and 8 maps. 0-938289-69-1.

The battle of Shiloh on April 6-7, 1862 was the biggest battle of the Civil War up to that date. Confederate General A. S. Johnston's daring surprise attack failed and cost him his life. The gallant stand of the then-unknown Union General Ulysses S. Grant created a new national hero and was the turning point in the career of the Civil War's eventual victor.

The author of Gettysburg, July has produced a new edition of his out-of-print book on the battle of Shiloh. Likely to become the standard introduction to the campaign, this book will feature the most accurate order of battle available. The books features include:

  • Special "Leaders" section which profiles 33 major personalities of the battle.
  • "Campaign" format shows relationship of Shiloh to engagements at Fort Oonelson and Island No. 10, and the opening of the Western theatre of the Civil War.
  • In-depth examination of General Beauregard's controversial role in the campaign, and his relationship with other Confederate generals.
  • Unique "Sharing the Blame" section explores the tactical successes and failures of both sides.
  • Dramatic account of Union shore bombardment by U.S.S. Lexington and Tyler provides interesting possibilities for gamers and re-enactors.

    David G. Martin has a Ph.D. in History from Princeton University and teaches in New Jersey. His many works on the Civil war include Regimental Strengths and Losses at Gettysburg, Jackson's Valley Campaign, The Chancellorsville Campaign, and Confederate Monuments at Getrysburg.

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