The Man Behind The Guns: A Military Biography Of General Henry J. Hunt, Commander Of Artillery, Army Of The Potomac

by Edward G. Longacre

The deadly accurate guns of the Union artillery were the most feared weapons on Civil War battlefields. General Henry Jackson Hunt, the highest-ranking artillery officer in the Union army, was "the man behind the guns" -- the military genius who transformed a disorganized artillery corps into the most effective service arm of the army. Even the Confederates admired General Hunt. One Rebel general once boasted, "Give me Confederate infantry and Union artillery, and I'll whip the world! " The Man Behind the Guns tells the life story of General Hunt, who, by the time he died in 1889, was recognized as one of the finest tacticians and military theorists ever to wear an American uniform. His outstanding reputation, however, had been established years before when his 270 strategically placed cannon shattered Pickett's Charge and decided the outcome of the most significant battle in American history.This classic military biography, published twenty-five years ago and now available for the first time in paperback, is a "must" for every student of Civil War history.

Genres: Civil War, History

296 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1978

Reviews

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great civil war biography. Longacre kept the narrative moving so it never got boring. I have really enjoyed every book by Longacre and would recommend any book he's written.

Going into this, I didn't know if there was enough there with General Hunt to make an interesting book, but he was far more fascinating than I thought he'd be. He was a man of great conviction and loved the Artillery arm of the Army. His efforts would have long lasting effects in the Army. This book built up to it's high water mark with Gettysburg, Hunt's greatest contribution.

I really enjoyed the book and would recommend it!

[Tammy Mannarino · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent, objective biography of Henry J. Hunt, namesake of Fort Hunt in Alexandria, VA. It is the only biography I am aware of on Hunt who is a little known but fascinating person in American history.

[Thomas Warger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superb memoir. Most accounts of Civil War battles focus almost exclusively on the infantry. The Union's strength in manufacturing provided an important advantage in artillery. Hunt provided the genius to use it decisively.

[Jim Benton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forgiving his friendship and life long defense of the indefensible McClellan, Henry Hunt was one of a handful of Civil War generals who knew their business, tried his best to make his superiors better than they were, and recieved almost no credit for what was a remarkable career.

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books of the Civil War I've read so far.