America's Buried History

Brief Summary

America's Buried History: Landmines in the Civil War by Kenneth R. Rutherford is a groundbreaking work focusing on the use of landmines during the American Civil War. Despite the extensive literature on the Civil War, Rutherford addresses a neglected aspect: the strategic and controversial use of landmines by the Confederacy. The book highlights how these "infernal devices" significantly influenced the war's dynamics and provoked ethical debates within military ranks.

Main Themes and Topics

The book navigates through the complexities surrounding the first widespread use of modern landmines during the conflict. A central theme is the ethical dilemma presented by such weapons, referred to as "weapons that wait," and their impact on military strategies and civilian perceptions. Rutherford explores how the Confederacy resorted to these devices as a creative solution to their shortcomings in manpower and material, effectively altering the course of battles and the broader war effort.

Writing Style and Tone

Kenneth R. Rutherford’s writing is both meticulous and engaging, combining thorough academic research with a narrative style that brings to life the historical figures and events he describes. His prose effectively balances technical details with storytelling, ensuring that both historians and general readers can appreciate the depth of the content. His personal connection to the subject—having lost his legs to a landmine in Africa—adds a poignant and authoritative voice to his analysis.

Awards and Recognition

While specific awards for the book are not mentioned, it has been described as "masterfully researched" and praised by notable figures such as Jonathan A. Noyalas, director of Shenandoah University’s McCormick Civil War Institute, and His Royal Highness Prince Mired Raad Al-Hussein, a UN Special Envoy for the Landmine Prohibition Treaty. Such endorsements highlight the book's impact and importance in military and civil war studies.

Criticism

Although the book is highly acclaimed, some criticism could arise from its highly focused subject matter, which might not appeal to readers looking for a broader overview of the Civil War. However, for those interested in military innovations and ethical discussions pertaining to warfare technology, this book offers invaluable insights.