Two Great Rebel Armies

Main Themes and Topics

In "Two Great Rebel Armies," Richard M. McMurry undertakes a methodical examination of the Confederate military efforts during the American Civil War. The primary focus of the book lies in comparing two Confederate armies: Lee's Army of Northern Virginia and the Army of Tennessee. McMurry delves into the reasons behind the differing levels of success between the two, ultimately asserting that the former was superior due to a variety of factors, including leadership, organization, and strategy. He provides a detailed analysis of military tactics, leadership qualities, and internal dynamics that contributed to the successes and struggles of these respective forces.

Writing Style and Tone

Richard McMurry's writing style in "Two Great Rebel Armies" is clear, concise, and scholarly. He employs a factual and objective tone, methodically presenting comparisons and arguments supported by historical evidence. McMurry's expertise as a military historian shines through in his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to convey complex military concepts in an accessible manner. The tone is academic yet approachable, making the book suitable for both academic readers and Civil War enthusiasts.

Brief Summary

"Two Great Rebel Armies" is an analytical work that scrutinizes the performance and effectiveness of the two largest Confederate armies during the Civil War. Through rigorous analysis, McMurry argues that the success of Lee's Army of Northern Virginia was not solely due to superior leadership but also a result of its structural and organizational advantages over the Army of Tennessee. The book provides deep insights into the contrasting military approaches, leadership styles, and outcomes of the two armies, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of what contributed to the storied successes of Lee's forces as compared to their Western counterparts.