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Hess really takes aim (in 2-rank line formation 😅) at some common misunderstandings about Civil War infantry combat and its tactics. In great detail, Hess shows how field manual content evolved and how it was imparted to Civil War armies. He also puts it in context of 19th century warfare and how yes, Civil War commanders we're not fumbling around but making logical choices.

This book is interesting, but at times it becomes picaresque and loses a central focus. Curiously, the "battle" aspect of the Cold War comes across as downplayed and minor rather than central.

Nonetheless, the author brings much interesting research to light from local and national archives, which helps us understand international politics in the late-WW2 era.