This work offers a new and more positive assessment of the leadership qualities of the ""political generals"" (appointed officers with little or no military training) of the Union. In the process it cuts through the stereotype of political generals as superfluous, inept and ambitious schemers.
"[Not everyone will agree with his conclusions, but] Gosss thoughtful reassessment is sure to attract the attention of military historians generally, and Civil War scholars in particular."
American Historical Review"For a subject that has received a wealth of attention over the last century, Goss has managed to add something new and engaging by producing thoughtful and perceptive analyses of the war within the Union high command."Civil War History
"A thought-provoking book that the specialist and general reader alike can enjoy. Those interested in the subject of political generals and the evolution of the American concept of generalship will want this book on their shelves at home."North & South
"A significant contribution to Civil War scholarship."Parameters
"A valuable book. Civil War history needs more studies such as this one to refresh the field, recast old questions and get us beyond simplistic assumptions about Civil War military history."Civil War Book Review
"The author is to be commended for his broad reading of sources, his ability to propose questions, and his analytical skill in responding to them. Despite the well-known fact that some political generals suffered badly in battle, Goss finds that their service in the war was valuable. To some extent, the book is a defense of political generals who commanded in occupied areas and began reconstruction of state governments. Recommended."Choice
"A superb analysis of Union strategy and policy during the American Civil War."Army
"A useful book that deserves a wide audience, both academic and public."History: Reviews of New Books
"A detailed and comprehensive study of the rivalry between Union political and professional generals, acknowledging the virtues of both, has been overdue. Goss has filled the need admirably."Russell F. Weigley in The Washington Times
"General readers and serious students alike, especially those with an interest in generalship and the politics of war, will find much of value in this fine book."Civil War News
Union political generals were so inept, the story goes, that they should never have led armies. Not so, says Goss, whose argument is sure to create as much debate among modern readers as it did among wartime participants. . . . An important book.John F. Marszalek, author of Sherman: A Soldiers Passion for Order
A significant contribution that clarifies and sharpens our understanding of the strengths, weaknesses, and accomplishments of these generals, while at the same time providing a more complex vision of Union command overall.Herman Hattaway, author of Shades of Blue and Gray
A must read for all serious students of the Civil War and the institutional development of the United States Army.Albert E. Castel, author of Decision in the West: The Atlanta Campaign of 1864
