Customer Reviews

War in Mexico

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This is one great book, in my opinion. It has good maps, orders of battle for each engagement with unit strengths in many cases, chapters on each army and its weapons and tactics, and chapters on the uniforms of each army. Good campaign and battle descriptions too. Good descriptions of the generals for each side. I just can't say enough good things about it. If you have any sort of serious interest in this war, do yourself a favor and get it.

I found most of the book to be uninspired, the narrative really picks up in the decription of the battle for Mexico City and seige of Puebla. Other wise the text is below average. The outstanding features of the book are the charts that list the roster of units for each side for the significant battles, really a sign of outstanding research. Also there are maps of all the major battle, very simple maps but they really help gain a better understanding of the ground and positions of each army.
If you want a better understanding of uniforms go to:

MEXICAN-AMERICAN WAR 1846-48 (Brassey's History of Uniforms Series) by Ron Field

The best narrative of the war is:

The Mexican War, 1846-1848 by K. Jack Bauer

For a better understanding of the US army itself I suggest:

Mr. Polk's Army: American Military Experience in the Mexican War

Army of Manifest Destiny: The American Soldier in the Mexican War, 1846-1848 (The American Social Experience)

Tony Adams writes the definitive book for those interested in the history of the Mexican-American War. He provides the political and strategic setting of the war, as well as great tactical accounts of the battles.

Of particular interest is his detail on the Order of Battle, uniforms, tactics, weaponry and leadership for both the American and Mexican Army.

The Naval War is covered in suprising detail as well.

Few books have been written on the war with Mexico.

This one is the best available.

Highly informative Well written and well illustrated.

A must have for anyone interested in the subject.