Colonels in Blue--Indiana, Kentucky and Tennessee

Brief Summary

Colonels in Blue--Indiana, Kentucky and Tennessee by Roger D. Hunt serves as a comprehensive biographical dictionary that documents the Union army colonels who led regiments from the states of Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee during the Civil War. The book is organized by state and then by regiment, offering detailed biographical sketches of each colonel, with a particular focus on their service during the war. This work is significant because many of the featured colonels did not achieve a rank beyond colonel, such as brigadier general or brevet brigadier general, and have therefore received limited scholarly attention until now.

Main Themes and Topics

One of the main themes of the book is the exploration of leadership during the Civil War, highlighting the contributions and experiences of Union army colonels who commanded regiments from Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee. The book delves into the challenges and responsibilities faced by these military leaders, many of whom remained at the rank of colonel throughout their service, which resulted in them being overlooked by historians. By bringing these individuals to the forefront, Hunt sheds light on the diverse and often untold stories of leadership and courage that were pivotal to the Union's war efforts.

Another significant theme is regional military history. Hunt's focus on these three states provides a detailed view of how the Civil War impacted different regions and how men from these states contributed to the Union cause. This regional perspective adds depth to our understanding of the Civil War and highlights the varied backgrounds and motivations of the soldiers who served.

Writing Style and Tone

Roger D. Hunt's writing style in Colonels in Blue is systematic and meticulously detailed, reflective of the book's purpose as a reference work. The tone is scholarly yet accessible, catering to historians, military enthusiasts, and casual readers interested in Civil War history. Hunt's attention to detail is apparent in the thorough research and precise presentation of each colonel's background and military service. The structured organization and factual presentation provide a clear and concise reading experience, while the biographical sketches offer engaging insights into the personal and professional lives of the individuals featured.

Criticism

Some readers might find the book's format and lack of narrative flow a challenge, as the work is designed more as a reference guide than a continuous historical account. Those looking for in-depth battle descriptions or broader historical context might be disappointed by the focus on the individual colonels rather than larger strategic or tactical analyses. Additionally, the book's emphasis on Union colonels might not satisfy readers seeking a comprehensive view of military leaders from both sides of the Civil War.