A Confederate Biography
by Dwight Sturtevant Hughes
"The Cruise of the CSS Shenandoah"
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A Confederate Biography by Dwight Sturtevant Hughes
Details
War:
American Civil War
Perspective:
Commanders
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
Yes
Region:
North America
Page Count:
273
Published Date:
2015
ISBN13:
9781612518428
Description
Main Themes and Topics
A Confederate Biography by Dwight Sturtevant Hughes explores the fascinating journey of the CSS Shenandoah and its officers during the latter stage of the Civil War, from October 1864 to November 1865. The central theme revolves around the concept of commerce raiding, a naval strategy employed in warfare, which is described as a branch of guerilla warfare on the high seas. The book delves into the lives and backgrounds of the ship's officers, who hailed from prominent Southern families, linking them to significant figures in American history and shedding light on their motivations and beliefs. In doing so, Hughes provides a microcosm of the Confederate-American experience, emphasizing the complex interplay between loyalty, heritage, and duty.
Writing Style and Tone
Dwight Sturtevant Hughes crafts the narrative in a meticulous and engaging manner, providing readers with a well-researched account of the CSS Shenandoah's voyage. The writing is rich with detail, bringing to life the ship's encounters with extreme weather and diverse encounters around the globe. Hughes balances historical accuracy with storytelling, maintaining a tone that is both informative and captivating, which allows readers both interested in naval history and those new to the topic to appreciate the significance of the Shenandoah's mission.
Brief Summary
A Confederate Biography offers an in-depth look into the mission of the CSS Shenandoah, a Confederate ship tasked with commerce raiding during the American Civil War. Over a year-long expedition, the ship achieved remarkable successes during a time when the outcomes of the conflict had largely been decided. The book not only chronicles the ship's achievements but also offers insight into the personal stories of its officers, illustrating how their social backgrounds and connections to historical figures played a role in their service. As such, this biography is not just of a ship but a vivid portrayal of dedication, duty, and defiance in a challenging time for the Confederacy.
