Book Review
"Generals in Bronze"
“Generals in Bronze” is a history book presented in a unique and compelling form. I don’t recall how I first came across it, but my lifelong interest in the Civil War—second only to Biblical history—immediately drew me in. What truly piqued my interest was the subtitle: “Interviewing the Commanders of the Civil War.” This was not simply a historian’s account; it promised personal recollections from those who commanded on the ground.
Edited by William B. Styple, the book compiles the interview notes of artist James Kelly, who sketched and later created bronze castings of Civil War generals. While the generals sat for their portraits, Kelly asked them about the war, specific events, and—most revealing—their opinions of one another. What emerges is unfiltered history: candid, personal, and at times uncomfortable.
Kelly, who was a child during the Civil War, was especially fascinated by Union generals. His conversations capture perspectives rarely found in traditional histories, which often tell us what happened, when it happened, and sometimes why—but not how those who lived it truly felt.
General James Harrison Wilson once said, “One can't put down history as it really happened—people don't want it—it would shock them.” In compiling Kelly’s notes, Styple gives us that very history: the good, the bad, and the ugly. Rather than dismembering my understanding of the Civil War, this book brought clarity—especially regarding figures like General Custer in the postwar years.
I highly recommend this book. It provides insight into some of the most prominent men of the Civil War—many whose names later became associated with military posts or equipment. You’ll see how they viewed one another, and how history has sometimes redeemed men their peers did not. The 309 pages consist largely of organized conversational notes, with minimal editorial interruption for clarity. I purchased my copy used on Amazon and found it well worth the read.
This book reminded me that history is best understood through the voices of those who lived it, not just those who later interpreted it.
No comments:
Post a Comment