Benjamin of Tudela; Spain; a famous world traveler of the 12th century [1173 C.E.] is considered by some modern historians as giving the most accurate description of every-day life in the Middle Ages. Written originally in Hebrew; it was translated into Latin and later became an extremely popular piece of Jewish literature in many languages. The modern reader might regard it as an exotic tale. But the author actually intended to give his contemporaries a factual account of his travels. What exactly did Benjamin plan to accomplish when he started out on his fantastic journey? At first; probably nothing but a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. which. despite the Crusades; retained a magic attraction for the pious Jew. A pilgrimage-an Aliyah-probably with the thought to stay there for the rest of his life. But the fact is that he did take the long road; stopping frequently; meeting people; visiting places; describing occupations and giving a demographic count of Jews in every town and country.
#4492469 in Books 1985Original language:English #File Name: 093091924694 pages94 pp.; roster; cloth. 94pp - Maps - Photos - Detailed Rosters - Bibliography
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. A valuable asset to link our family's history to events in the warBy E. IversonThe 57th Virginia is one of those regiments that were not among the highly touted in the day's press; but did their duty with the same commitment and belief in their cause as the more easily recognized units. Mr. Sublett uses the records from the regiment to fill out the travels; duties; and engagements of the 57th. My wife's great-great grandpa was a private in Co. A; and it was thrilling to know he had been a part of Pickett's charge that fateful day in July 1863. My own great-grandpa was serving the Union side at Stevens' knoll; with the 5th Maine Battery; just over the cemetery ridge from Pickett and his brigades. The book was ordered from Morningside books; and is a hard cover. The back pages contain a full roster of the men of the 57th; so you can find any relative's names. In our case; great great grandpa was captured at the battle of Five Forks; and the roster confirms that event. There are also several maps that highlight the position of the 57th on the battlefield. Photos of a select few soldiers are included as well. Reading of the trials and tribulations of camp life; as well as the action seen at Malvern Hill; Gettysburg; and Five Forks; gives the reader a good sense of what it took to be a volunteer in the Army of Northern Virginia. It is an invaluable source for those whose relatives served in the 57th.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Very Informative.By Douglas G RobertsonThe information that I could verify was correct. The book listed my ancestor correctly. A good in-depth study of this particular regiment. This book answered a lot of questions for me. This book helped me understand in detail the hardship endured by these soldiers and their bravery.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Family researchBy Kenneth JoyI had 12 direct relatives; the Lees of Buckingham County; VA. that served with the 42nd; 53rd; and 57th Virginia. I was very happy with way this unit history was allowed to unfold.