Customer Reviews

John M. Schofield and the Politics of Generalship (Civil War America)

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John Schofield was one of those young men who managed to graduate from West Point just before the start of the Civil War. When the war began, like many others, he quickly became a general officer. Unlike many others, he retained this rank for the rest of his very long career. He held administrative and battlefield commands during the war, was Secretary of War, superintended West Point, and eventually became commanding general. Yet, he is almost unknown outside the circle of civil war experts and even within that group is not a major subject of research. This book will fill that gap. It is copiously detailed and covers every aspect of Schofield's career. The book centers on Schofield's negotiation of the politics of the military life. However, the author provides an opbjective and appropriately critical discussion of Schofield's role in the Atlanta/Franklin/Nashville campaigns. Schofield's personal virtues and flaws are also analyzed. As the book deals with army administration, army/congressional relationships, and politics, it is not a quick read. However, if you are willing to devote the time needed to carefully read this book, you will come away with a good understanding of the role of this interesting and important officer.

This is truly a wonderful book. I have always maintained an interest in civil military relations, but until I read this book, I never truly understood the importance of this topic. I am currently a student in a Graduate degree program, and I can't express how often this book touches on our day to day studies. In fact, I can pull something from this book on almost any topic. In fact, I think I'll recommed that our professor make it mandatory reading. I hope he'll agree!!
Dan Saumur, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas