One aspect of the Civil War now of great interest to historians and general readers alike is the effect of the war on civilians. Using the besieged city of Winchester; Virginia; as a backdrop; Michael G. Mahon explores the impact of the Civil War on two Winchester women: Julia Chase and Laura Lee. "Winchester Divided" presents the diaries of Lee; a diehard Southerner; and Chase; a firm supporter of the Union. Both used their diaries to unflinchingly voice their strong opinions. By juxtaposing their two opposing viewpoints; Mahon allows today's reader to get a real sense of the deeply felt passions that the war inspired
#732072 in Books 2006-10-10Ingredients: Example IngredientsOriginal language:EnglishPDF # 1 1.38 x 6.04 x 9.20l; 1.78 #File Name: 0811701786420 pages
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. For my purposes it was perfect; although I will admit that the very extent ...By Matt KenneyI used this to attempt to track the location of one of my ancestor's who fought in this campaign to the extent possible. Superbly researched. For my purposes it was perfect; although I will admit that the very extent of the research makes it a bit of a slog to read through. Not for the casual reader; perfect for someone truly interested in the most detail possible about the Battle of Brandywine.12 of 13 people found the following review helpful. Could have been 5-star; but where are the maps?By HistoricusThus far I have only read volume 1 of the set. The most impressive aspect is the author's use of a vast number of primary sources - really fine work amassing all of them. They are usually used effectively too; except that in the narrative of the battle of Brandywine the quotes are often used in ways that don't really support the story being told. The real problem with this book is the virtual absence of any useful maps. That's a major issue really; you get this detailed and lengthy look at the aforementioned battle; for example; but only one really inadequate map to assist you. It is the same with campaign maps; they just are not there. I think there are maybe four maps in the entire book; something like that. No matter how good the text; good military history books must have decent and numerous maps. Where are they? Not here. This may have been the decision by the editors; I don't know. But it detracts badly from an otherwise excellent piece of scholarship. If it sees a second printing I hope this will be corrected.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. NiceBy Lee BaerWell written and hard to put down. Written so as to let the story flow. Hard to put down if this type of history interests you.
