"God Alone Knows which was Right"

Main Themes and Topics

"God Alone Knows which was Right" by Richard L. Armstrong delves into the complexities of familial and national conflict during the Civil War. Central to the book is the exploration of divided loyalties, as epitomized by the Terrill family, whose sons fought on opposite sides of the war. Through the lens of this family saga, the book examines larger themes of duty, allegiance, and the heartbreaking nature of a nation splintered by civil strife. The narrative is enriched with primary sources, such as family letters and military records, offering readers a textured historical account that delves deeply into personal and collective identities during one of America's most tumultuous periods.

Writing Style and Tone

Richard L. Armstrong's writing style in "God Alone Knows which was Right" is both scholarly and accessible. The author's use of primary sources like letters and official documents provides authenticity and depth, immersing readers in the historical period. Armstrong balances a scholarly tone with poignant storytelling, capturing the emotional resonance of the Terrill family's divisions. His narrative is clear and engaging, inviting both history enthusiasts and casual readers to explore the intricate dynamics of the Civil War era through a personal lens.

Brief Summary

"God Alone Knows which was Right" centers on the Terrill family, whose internal divisions mirrored the broader schisms of the Civil War. The book recounts how William H. Terrill commemorated his sons, who served as generals on opposing sides, with a monument inscribed with the phrase that serves as the book's title. Through detailed excerpts from family letters and military records, Armstrong crafts a poignant narrative of a family and a nation enduring and confronting the challenges of a war that pitted brother against brother and father against son.