The "Immortal Six Hundred" and the Failure of the Civil War POW Exchange Process

Main Themes and Topics

"The 'Immortal Six Hundred' and the Failure of the Civil War POW Exchange Process" by John F. Schmutz delves into one of the lesser-known yet profoundly impactful aspects of the American Civil War: the breakdown of the prisoner exchange system. The book meticulously explores how the failure of this system resulted in the tragic fate of 600 Confederate officers who became pawns in a political and military standoff. Schmutz scrutinizes the policies of retaliation and the decisions by both the Lincoln administration and the Confederate leadership that escalated the suffering of these prisoners. This narrative is set against the backdrop of the whole Civil War POW experience, shedding light on the broader implications of the prisoner exchange's collapse and its contribution to the already staggering wartime death toll.

Writing Style and Tone

John F. Schmutz employs a scholarly yet accessible writing style, which makes complex military and political history comprehensible to a wide audience. His tone is both analytical and empathetic, capturing the harsh realities faced by the 'Immortal Six Hundred'. Schmutz effectively balances detailed historical analysis with narrative elements that bring the personal stories of the prisoners to life. His approach is methodical, offering a carefully constructed account that is rich with factual details and poignant anecdotes.

Brief Summary

In this book, Schmutz provides a detailed account of how 600 Confederate officers were used as human shields during the Civil War due to the breakdown in the prisoner exchange process. These officers were initially sent to Charleston Harbor and subsequently moved to other locations where they faced dire conditions, including deliberate starvation. Schmutz highlights the enormity of their suffering, placing it firmly within the context of failed policies and retaliatory acts by both Union and Confederate authorities. The narrative underscores the critical role of the failed exchange cartel in prolonging the war and increasing the human cost associated with it.