John Jay was dedicated to the cause of American independence; and is best remembered for his notable accomplishments during his career as a public official. This book examines the challenges faced by John Jay during the last years of his life with particular attention given to the qualities in his character that enabled him to achieve success not only as a public official; but also in his retirement; and his ability to persevere; especially in times of adversity. John Jay’s retirement to his farm in Bedford; New York; his family; the Village of Bedford; his religious beliefs; his political views; and the republic he helped to create are discussed; often in the words of John Jay; his family; friends and compatriots. In addition to observations made by family members and contemporaries; quotes from John Jay reveal his character. Jay never left anyone in doubt as to his position on the issue at hand. The marriage of John Jay and Sarah Livingston Jay was a union of two perfectly matched souls who enlightened and advanced the cause of American independence. The author dispels the notion that John Jay was a “broken man†after the death of his wife. Numerous illustrations; a bibliography; and an index to full-names; places and subjects add to the value of this work.
#2612419 in Books 2015-07-14Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.90 x .90 x 6.90l; .0 #File Name: 078649834X344 pages
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. I gave this book to a friend as a gift ...By GiselleI gave this book to a friend as a gift and they were thrilled - Ferguson is one of their heroes!1 of 3 people found the following review helpful. This is a "must-read" for any Civil War historian or enthusiast!By ElkeZeThis is a "must-read" for any Civil War historian or enthusiast! Major General Smith may be lost from our history books; but he has been rightfully resurrected by Mr. Mesch and his meticulous research. I was impressed with the amount of detail and fascinated to learn about this little known cornerstone of American history. Well done!!1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. A Notable “Forgotten†Civil War GeneralBy Albert A. NofiA summary of the review on StrategyPage.Com:'Civil War blogger and reviewer Mesch gives us a biography of one of the most overlooked officers of the ante bellum and Civil War era. Smith (1807-1862); a West Point graduate (1825); did the usual tours of garrison duty in the peace time army; was Commandant of Cadets at the Academy (1838-1843) wherehe had daily contact with 32 future generals; in either Blue or Gray; and then served with distinction in Mexico (brevets from major to colonel) and on the Utah Expedition (1857-1860). Appointed a brigadier general of volunteers in early 1862; he formed a division out of raw recruits; and led it with distinction in the Henry-Donelson Campaign. An officer of great promise; well regarded by his peers; subordinates; and commanders; notably U.S. Grant; much was expected of him; but he died due to an accident in early 1862. Mesch does an excellent job of telling Smith’s story; while helping the reader get a better grasp of the military practice of the day. Although not definitive; given the sparsity of original sources; this is an interesting book about an important and influential officer. 'For the full review; see StrategyPage.Com
