Shenandoah 1864: Sheridan’s valley campaign Paperback – Illustrated, October 21, 2014

In August, 1864, Union General U.S. Grant dispatched the young and aggressive Brigadier General Phil Sheridan to the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, there to suppress the Confederate Army of General Jubal Early, whose troops had threatened Washington, D.C. in early July, and burned Chambersburg, Pennsylvania in late July. Sheridan was given the elements of a small army and told to follow Early "to the death." What followed was Sheridan's remarkable Valley campaign."Shenandoah 1864" is an Osprey Campaign Series entry, authored by Mark Lardas, with illustrations by Adam Hook. The narrative captures the see-saw nature of the campaign up and down the Valley, as two skilled generals maneuvered for advantage. The campaign culminated in the Battle of Cedar Creek, a clash that could have been won by either side.The format follows the standard Osprey presentation on the opposing commanders, their forces, and their plans. The text provides a very readable description of the campaign itself, nicely supplemented with an excellent selection of maps, diagrams, photographs, and illustrations. The author provides some concise analysis on the differing expectations of the opposing commanders, along with mention of the role played by Confederate irregulars and of the effects of the "burning" of the Valley. The result is a good introduction to the topic. Recommended.

I am familiar with the 1864 Shenandoah Valley campaign based on earlier research and the fact I have spent much time in that valley. This campaign is in striking contrast to the 1862 campaign. Stonewall Jackson was master in 1862 and Phil Sheridan was master in 1864. I am pleased at the content of this book including ample photographs, artwork, and tactical maps as well as order of battle.

An interesting overview of the famous campaign in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. It not only covers the major actions but puts the campaign into the strategic perspective, i.e. how did the Sheridan vs Early fight affect the rest of the war? Easy to read and well illustrated. Great for the history buff who wants to learn about this famous campaign.

The book is excellent, but it is quite depressing to be reminded of just how much blood was shed during the Civil War.

I recommend this book. It is a well written and easy to follow account of Sheridan's 1864 Valley Campaign. I would recommend the book rather than the kindle version to more easily study the wonderful maps.

thank you

nice book

Excellent

A good description of the battles and leaders spoiled by one paragraph. On page 23, the author bemoanes the lack of coloured troops. This is a woke comment ascribing todays values on a battle that occurred some 146 years ago, and with little knowledge of the then current thinking about the use of coloured troops. It also contradicts earlier text re Grant using very experienced troops.

well written book!

Excellent and informative book

good basic background