Civil War City
by William J. Miller
"Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, 1861-1865, the Training of an Army"
Popularity
2.82 / 5
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Civil War City by William J. Miller
Details
War:
American Civil War
Perspective:
Researcher
Military Unit:
US Army
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
No
Region:
North America
Published Date:
2000
ISBN13:
9781572492370
Description
Brief Summary
Civil War City by William J. Miller presents an in-depth exploration of the lives of soldiers during the Civil War era, focusing on their backgrounds, training, and leisure activities. The book delves into the intricate relationship between war and society, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of how soldiers interacted with their environment and how societal elements influenced military life.
Main Themes and Topics
The central theme of Civil War City revolves around the soldier's experience during the Civil War, highlighting how they navigated day-to-day life amidst the turmoil. William J. Miller elaborates on the soldiers' training regimes, the socio-cultural background of these individuals, and how they spent their leisure time. Through this lens, the book examines the broader interaction between war and society, showcasing how civil life influenced military practices and vice versa. It portrays a vivid depiction of military encampments as microcosms of urban life during the Civil War period.
Writing Style and Tone
William J. Miller's writing in Civil War City is both informative and engaging, maintaining a balance between scholarly analysis and readability. His narrative style is accessible, making complex historical contexts comprehensible for a broad audience. The tone of the book is largely descriptive and analytical, offering insights with a clear, authoritative voice. Miller successfully brings the Civil War era to life through descriptive passages that paint vivid pictures of soldiers' experiences during this tumultuous period.
Criticism
While Civil War City has been praised for its thorough research and detailed depiction of soldier life, some readers might find the focus on the routine and everyday aspects of military life to be less engaging compared to traditional military histories that emphasize battles and strategies. Additionally, the book's emphasis on the micro-level interactions between soldiers and their surroundings might not appeal to those looking for a broader military or political analysis of the Civil War.
