In this book, the author covers the Civil War’s eastern theater from 1861-65 and leads you through a progressive linage of the fighting infantryman on both sides under the, quoting the book, “appalling realities of warfare in the industrial age.” You’ll follow the infantryman in the key battles such as First Bull Run/Manassas, “The Bloody Angle” Gettysburg, and Chaffin’s Farm/New Market Heights. The later battle sets focus on African American troops fighting for the union. The book further discusses in-depth the tactics and strategies used by both sides. The evolution of uniforms worn by the troops is an interesting story in itself and will surely aid the purist modeler. The diorama modeler will appreciate the interesting period b&w photographs, plus it’s packed with a wide range of colorful paintings and maps.

I found the book to be well thought out with a very coherent outline and written with easy to understand explanations. The book itself is well printed with a hearty gum and cord binding. The print is easy to read and the photographs are very clear. The period artwork and illustrations are historically correct. The maps and charts are rendered so that any layperson can understand them.

Contents

• Introduction
• The opposing sides
• Combat 1
• Combat 2
• Combat 3
• Analysis and conclusion
• Bibliography
• Index

I highly recommend this book to anyone. It’s packed with information and photos.

I would like to thank Osprey Publishing and IPMS USA for allowing me the opportunity to review and present this excellent book.