Combat: The Civil War

by Don Congdon

Many books have been written about the Civil War, its economic effects, its political causes, and its relationship to western expansion. But the real fascination of the war is the story of combat. This book tells the story in the words of men who actually marched into battle. We share their experiences, fears, and moments of bravery at Vicksburg, on board the Monitor, at Gettysburg, and at the bloody battle of Antietam. Eyewitness accounts are interspersed with brief commentaries by some of our most respected historians, who illuminate the accounts by placing them in their proper context. Those seeking one volume that tells the whole story of the war coherently need look no further. Combat: The Civil War is gritty, readable history. Immediate and informative, here is that rare work that actually brings the struggles and characters of the past to life.

Genres: Civil War, History, American Civil War, Audiobook, American History, Military History, Nonfiction

564 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1967

Reviews

[James · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quite a good collection of personal recollections of veterans and condensed histories. It is heavily focused on the Union perspective however so those wanting more of a Confederate view or indeed balanced view might be disappointed.

[Hal · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is quite a long audiobook 27 hours. It contains a wealth of history and real life experience from the epic battles of our Civil War. All the great names are presented here but the real stories come from the boots on the ground. The detail at times can get overwhelming but it is a perspective from being there and one that will thrill most Civil War buffs.

[John Morris ii · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very niche book, but an epic read!

[Ian Burrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written in 1967, this is an early example of a narrative constructed by linked first-hand accounts of the conflict.

The result is both engaging and informative.

[Mansor · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some (2 or 3) of the first hand accounts were five star reads, but the overall narrative was choppy and disjointed.

[Del · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting first hand accounts of various battles in the Civil War. Lots of interesting insights into what life was like for soldiers in the Union and the Confederacy..

Listened to the unabridged audiobook on Audible.com.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good overview of the war. Liked that it had different accounts of the battles from both sides.

[Joe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting book