Military memoirs of a Confederate; a critical narrative

From here, Alexander gives his first-hand experience in nearly every battle fought in the Virginia vicinity, as well as Chickamauga in the west. You may also be surprised to find out that he writes in detail about the Army of the Potomac as well, giving its officers and strategies both praise and criticism. He always uses their reports, as well as the South's, when it comes to their accounts of the battle, and their casualty lists, giving credence and respect to both sides.

Alexander was one of Lee's most valuable officers, and perhaps his best artillerist. He was a man Lee could not spare. Longstreet and Jackson both appreciated his great knowledge and value. This book will not disappoint you. Many historians have given great praise and due credit to Alexander's scholarly narrative. I highly recommend this book to any Civil War buff.


Probably the best of the Confederate memoirs, a must-have.   August 17, 1999
Art Chance (Juneau, AK USA)
15 out of 15 found this review helpful

Any serious student of the War for Southern Independence has learned that memoirs are a veritable minefield of self-serving half-truths and outright misrepresentations. Alexander's is the notable exception. Long allied with, and perhaps a bit beholden to, James Longstreet, Alexander tries to if not defend, at least explain his old chief, particularly at Gettysburg. Alexander's fundamental honesty triumphs, though he is at pains to put the best face on Longstreet's actions. The memoir is frank, enormously fact-filled, and about as honest as someone with a personal stake in the matter could be. An absolute must-have for any student of The War.


Excellent   September 22, 2002
F. Stover (Bolt, W.V. United States)
8 out of 9 found this review helpful

I believe this to be the most accurate, and honest, first-hand account of the Army of Northern Virginia. After reading this book, your perception of certain battlefields will never be the same. Not only was Alexander a true soldier, but also a fine scholar.


A must-read for serious students of the War   October 15, 2004
Fruit Loop (Down South)
8 out of 9 found this review helpful

General Alexander gives almost a blow-by-blow account of each major battle of the War Between the States, complete with Orders of Battle, casualty reports, and numbers of troops engaged. His excellent memory for detail makes for somewhat dry reading at times (if you're not looking for numbers), but remains a classic in War literature. A must-have for any library on the period