Morris M. Penny and J. Gary Laine have produced a compelling story of Law's Alabama Brigade's attempt to wrest the Round Tops from Federal hands. In July 1863; Evander McIver Law; age 26; was one of Robert E. Lee's most promising generals. His brigade of Alabamians shared the Army of Northern Virginia's sense of invincibility. After a grueling 25-mile march to the battlefield; Law's men made a valiant three-hour effort to gain control of the high ground on the Federal right. Struggle for the Round Tops describes the vicious fighting around Devil's Den; in the Devil's Kitchen; and the heartbreaking repulse from Little Round Top. Law's Alabamians participated in the defense of the Confederate right on July 3 and delighted in unhorsing a number of Federal troopers in Farnsworth's charge. Two days after it arrived; the brigade retired from the field with the realization that the Federals had matched their own fighting ability. Law himself departed with the seeds of discord planted that would ultimately culminate in a devastating feud between himself and Longstreet. Much has been written about the conduct of the Confederate commanders on July 2. Some historians have suggested that Law deliberately disobeyed an order to launch his assault up the Emmitsburg Road. The authors examine the implications of Lee's orders and offer new insight into Hood'snd Law's perspective of the situation and the leeway Hood assumed as a division commander.
#4220536 in Books University of Tennessee Press 1999-06-26Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.27 x 1.12 x 6.30l; 1.59 #File Name: 1572330341301 pages
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. The Civil War through the eyes of a veteran.By Bruce L. NelsonIf you are interested in getting a glimpse of the Civil War from the perspective of a young soldier who took part; you will like this book.The greater part of the book was taken directly from his diaries; with some additions and modifications in later years; partially due to the loss of some diaries to the rebels.It is clear though; that most of the book is quite honest in portraying events as the author saw them unfold; including his own fears and shortcomings. Ayling displayed considerable courage under fire; and at other; quieter times; enjoyed a good drink of whiskey with his fellow officers. Like many Civil War soldiers; he frequently suffered from malaria and other ailments.Unfortunately for the story; (but perhaps fortunate in that it allowed him to survive) Ayling missed a couple of the great battles the 29th Massachusetts was engaged in; such as at Antietam and the Battle of the Crater. In his comments the editor might have mentioned that at Antietam; the bloodiest day in American military history; the 29th fought at the Bloody Lane with the Irish Brigade. (One of the 29th's men winning the Medal of Honor.)I enjoyed this book. It spans the conflict from Richmond to Vicksburg. "A Yankee at Arms" is a good insider's view of the real war.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. First Hand Account of 19th Century Soldier LifeBy Mark A. SavageAlthough not compelling reading (thus 4 stars); this is a great book for those students of the Civil War and daily soldier life. If you are a re-enactor; this should be on or near the top of your list of required reading.Much of the books materials are taken from diary entries; and provide a very detailed insight into the everyday life of a soldier in the Army of the Potomac. The day-to-day routine is so well reflected that the writing style illustrates it to a tee. I couldn't help but feel for these brave men.Although the major actions that the 29th Massachusetts didn't include our main character; the unit's history is laid out very nicely in the book. An interesting aspect is that of the wounded soldier trying to heal in pre-advanced medical situations. It is staggering still to imagine what these men had to deal with once injured.Read it when you can. A book well done.6 of 8 people found the following review helpful. Worthy of being the next classic in the Civil WarBy A CustomerDr.Charles Frederick Herberger was my professor of English at Nasson College in Springvale;Maine. I have personnally known Dr.Herberger for nearly twenty years and I can tell you that when Dr.Herberger writes a book its usually a knockout! This one is a first rate job which should set the standards for all Civil War books written. This book should be used in all Civil War classes taught in colleges from Maine to California. Herberger is first rate and the entire Nasson College community should applaud him for what he has done. In the words of Dr. Myrl M. Young bravo!
