Company "A" Corps of Engineers, U.S.A., 1846-1848, in the Mexican War

Main Themes and Topics

"Company 'A' Corps of Engineers, U.S.A., 1846-1848, in the Mexican War" by Gustavus Woodson Smith offers a detailed look into the role of the U.S. Army's Corps of Engineers during the Mexican-American War. A key theme explored in the book is the strategic and instrumental part that these West Point-trained officers played in shaping military tactics and outcomes during the conflict. The narrative touches upon the early careers of several notable figures who would go on to become prominent Civil War generals, including Robert E. Lee, P.G.T. Beauregard, and George McClellan. Another significant theme is the effectiveness of Winfield Scott's leadership and the operational strategies executed by his army during the war.

Writing Style and Tone

Gustavus Woodson Smith presents his account with a focus on military precision and attention to historical accuracy. The tone of the book is analytical, providing readers with an insightful examination of military operations from an engineering and strategic perspective. Smith's writing style is direct and informative, designed to engage readers who have a keen interest in military history and the intricacies of war tactics.

Brief Summary

This book chronicles the experiences and contributions of Company "A" Corps of Engineers in the Mexican War from 1846 to 1848. It highlights the critical role played by these engineers in supporting military operations and the broader impact of their work on the war's outcome. Through the lens of Smith's experiences, the book offers a window into how the Corps' efforts and strategies were pivotal in several key campaigns, underlining the competence and innovation of the officers involved. Readers gain insights into military engineering of the era and the foundational impact it had on later military conflicts, such as the American Civil War.