Bluejackets

Main Themes and Topics

Bluejackets by Ron Field delves into the intricacies of the United States Navy during the Civil War period, specifically focusing on the uniform clothing, headgear, equipage, and weapons used by naval personnel. The book is a comprehensive exploration of the life and attire of navy personnel from the mid-19th century, providing insights into the changes and developments in naval uniforms throughout this turbulent period. Field uses primary sources such as official documents, newspapers, diaries, and letters to provide a detailed depiction of naval life, both in blockading fleets and on the high seas.

The text is not just a catalog of naval attire but a deeper examination of how these elements reflected the conditions and the demands placed on sailors and officers during wartime. This meticulous research into the everyday gear of ratings and enlisted men offers readers a rare glimpse into an aspect of naval history that is often overlooked.

Writing Style and Tone

Ron Field's writing style in Bluejackets is both informative and engaging, combining academic rigor with an accessible tone that invites readers from various backgrounds. The book successfully balances detailed, factual content with the kind of narrative flair that keeps readers interested. Field's use of primary sources adds authenticity and depth to the narrative, ensuring that each page is not only informative but also a testament to the era it discusses.

The tone of the book is scholarly yet approachable, making it an essential resource for historians and enthusiasts alike without alienating casual readers interested in the Civil War or naval history.

Brief Summary

Bluejackets offers a thorough examination of the United States Navy's clothing and equipage between 1852 and 1865. By unpacking original accounts and pairing them with period images and photographs of surviving artifacts, Ron Field provides an unparalleled look into naval life during the Civil War. This work fills a longstanding gap in knowledge by detailing the uniforms of officers and providing, for the first time, an in-depth analysis of the clothing worn by lower-ranked personnel. It is a critical resource for those interested in the Civil War's maritime history and material culture.