The Illustrated Encyclopedia of the Civil War: The Soldiers, Generals, Weapons and Battles

For long one of the best-selling illustrated books on the Civil War, this superb volume has been extensively and sympathetically expanded, with a host of new and fascinating material. A hugely detailed blend of contemporary photographs, paintings, and sketches, with modern views of the artifacts of the war. From this the reader can glean what it was like to fight that war, from both sides, with a narrative that is devoid of romanticism, but is nevertheless a thought-provoking, inspiring and stirring record of a momentous period in American history, replete with deeds that spawn legend and men and women who performed seemingly superhuman acts for the causes that they espoused. Added to this backdrop are new sections which provide even more detailed information on the officers and the men in blue and grey. Now included are insightful personality and career profiles of the most significant commanders (including Lee, Grant, Meade, Jackson, Stuart, Sherman) as well as specially taken photographs of their personal belongings, and dramatic paintings. In addition, there are new sections on the ordinary soldier and how he coped in battle, with annotated artworks of weapons and clear colour photographs of the Rebel and Yankee uniforms and equipment. This additional material will undoubtedly widen the book's appeal to avid Civil War enthusiasts and collectors alike.