Yesterday I finished reading Shelby Foote's historical narrative Stars In Their Courses. The book is a retelling of the greatest, and perhaps most tragic battle ever fought on American soil.
The Battle of Gettysburg was fought from July 1-3, 1863 and eventually decided the outcome of the American Civil War, although not as fast as some would have desired. Shelby Foote (who just died last year), does a fabulous job of explaining the thoughts, actions, personalities and miscues of both sides. While the Confederates had the decided advantage coming into the battle, due to many recent victories and superior officers, the Union emerged with the victory more due to a superior position on the field, better numbers and the faulty battle plan of Robert E. Lee on the third day of battle.
The tragic nature of war was exacerbated by the fact that men were shooting at literal friends and countrymen. Foote does a good job of mixing in the friendship of Hancock and Armistead, as well as the good relationships that had been shared by officers of both sides in the Mexican War when they had all fought together.
The title of the book comes from the statement that even "the stars in their courses" had fought against Lee that day, and had prevented a Confederate victory.
1 comment:
I have read several of Mr. Foote's works. He had a sensitive approach to History. He had a passion to tell the story of the civil war just as it was, and not with the spin of the winners or losers that often happens with history. I will miss his insight.
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