Civil War Reading

[smithcorp]

From a few of the avatars I suspect there's a few Civil War buffs around here. I've developed a bit of an interest in the American Civil War and I'm hoping you can recommend a good, concise signle volume book for me (preferably in print) so I can get an understanding of the progress and "shape" of the war.

I've read a little bit about some of the famous battles, particularly Gettysburg, but I don't have much of a grasp of the progression, strategy and politics.

Thanks in advance.

smith

[DemolitionMan]

Well, IMO this is the best overall look at the war: Battle Cry of Freedom by James M. McPherson. http://www.amazon.com/Battle-Cry-Freedom-Oxford-History/dp/0195038630

Won the Pulitzer in 89...and is really really great. One can fill a library with books about the CW, but this is the book to start with.

[andym]

I find the ACW a fascinating era.It was in a time where weapons and tactics were changing from the old Napoleonic type to a more modern recognisable one.I love the old photos of the ACW which brings home the full horrors of war and its aftermath.I havent read many books about it but i have seen 2 DVD's that were quite good."Gods and Generals" and its sequel "Gettysburg".If you can overlook the daft beards and facial hair used they are most entertaining.I also regularly refight battles of the ACW with John Tillers Batteleground Series availalble from www.matrixgames.com

[MajorMagee]

The Civil War Almanac

John S. Bowman

http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/0831713240/ref=ed_oe_h_olp

The Civil War

John S. Bowman

http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/1572154624/sr=1-1/qid=1240800637/ref=olp_tab_all?ie=UTF8&coliid=&me=&qid=1240800637&sr=1-1&seller=&colid=

[smithcorp]

Well, IMO this is the best overall look at the war: Battle Cry of Freedom by James M. McPherson. http://www.amazon.com/Battle-Cry-Freedom-Oxford-History/dp/0195038630

Won the Pulitzer in 89...and is really really great. One can fill a library with books about the CW, but this is the book to start with.

Thanks for the suggestion Demo Man. I picked this up at lunchtime (before I'd seen Major's suggestions). So far it looks like a good read. Thanks.

[smithcorp]

Well, I've finished Battle Cry of Freedom and it was an excellent introduction to the topic. I'm now interested in reading some more first-person experiences/reminiscences of the ACW and keen for any recommendations of good books that might fill that bill - the voices of the men and women on the ground.

thanks in advance

smith