With an introduction by N.A.M Rodger and accompanying essays by leading international experts; Nelson Napoléon explores the political; social and cultural contexts for one of the most significant naval battles in history; the Battle of Trafalgar (1805). Through close examination of the careers of key characters it provides a detailed yet accessible insight into the complexities of early nineteenth-century conflict and paints a vivid picture of the events and personalities involved. This lavishly illustrated book celebrates the bicentenary of the battle; and describes in detail these objects; some of which have been photographed for the first time.
#2574009 in Books White Mane Pub 1993-05Ingredients: Example IngredientsOriginal language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.25 x 6.25 x 1.25l; #File Name: 0942597311271 pages
Review
8 of 8 people found the following review helpful. Well-Rounded Trans-Mississippi/Western CS Brigade HistoryBy popinjayFrom all the western Confederate defeats; the Missouri Brigade must have been the most frustrated of units. Tucker makes a solid case that this particular brigade was the most intrepid unit of the western CS ranks. Overall; one gets the picture that this brigade was the one most often left holding the bag; serving some of the most dangerous and audacious missions of its almost constantly defeated army. Regimental histories often degenerate into chest thumping; or worse; punditry - but here there's not a bit of the snarky; academic elitism to offend the eye; only solid research; appropriate conclusions; and commentary respectful to both sides of the War. Too few authors are able to be objective enough to describe the merits of a Confederate fighting unit while fully acknowledging the tenacity of U.S. Grant.These types of histories; told through soldiers' pens; are the best type of American military studies. They exemplify the American character of the time and do a lot to explain the reasons for the sustained pluck of the men of the blue and the gray. We learn something about the soldiers' own motivations for fighting; right down to what they thought of their first uniforms (uniforms that were not gray but white).For readers tired of "laundry list history;" this is a good study of those that were actually there. Mainstream; general history would only tell us that the Confederate tactics at Pea Ridge failed; while histories such as this delve into the tremendous sacrifice endured despite that failure. A great read for lovers of regimental history; regardless of one's region or preferences.10 of 11 people found the following review helpful. A fine source of informationBy Megan A. BowserThis 1993 non-fiction book chronologically details the experience of the 1st Missouri Brigade from 1862 until their surrender at Vicksburg in 1863. It covers their victories and defeats at Pea Ridge; Iuka; Corinth; Louisiana Expedition; Grand Gulf; Port Gibson; Champions Hill; Big Black River and Vicksburg. It gives an account in detail of the leaders of the brigade; the common soldiers and touches on the large role of the St. Louis residents in the brigade. This book gives us an in-depth look at the lives of soldiers whom most of history has forgotten.The South's Finest is a very detailed work that I enjoyed reading. It is well documented and is a very thorough; professional work using journals; newspapers; and the Missouri Historical Society. The works cited demonstrates a mastery of the subject; Phillip Thomas Tucker's extensive use of primary sources shows the authenticity of his conclusions. Tucker's background as an Air Force historian also lends to his reliability.The only draw back is; because of the professional nature of this book; the common reader may find pieces of the work a bit dry. Overall; this book can be read by amateurs and professionals alike and offers an in-depth look at the South's finest soldiers in Missouri.
