A Life of Gen. Robert E. Lee By: John Esten Cooke (1830-1886)
John Esten Cooke's biography, A Life of Gen. Robert E. Lee, provides readers with a comprehensive and balanced account of the notable Confederate General's life. The author successfully brings forth a detailed portrayal of Gen. Lee, shedding light on his character, accomplishments, and challenges. Cooke's writing style is engaging and insightful, capturing the essence of Lee's life story with meticulous attention to detail. From Lee's early years to his impressive military career and later struggles during the American Civil War, the narrative unfolds smoothly, effortlessly drawing readers into the tumultuous era. One of the book's strengths lies in Cooke's ability to present both the successes and hardships experienced by Lee. Rather than painting an overly romanticized image, the author delves into the complexities of Lee's life and decisions, providing readers with a nuanced and comprehensive understanding of this iconic figure. Cooke addresses controversies surrounding Lee's leadership style and the moral dilemmas he faced, showcasing his human side and making him relatable to readers. Furthermore, the author adeptly intertwines historical events and intimate anecdotes, creating a vibrant and well-rounded portrait of Lee. Whether detailing his relationships with family, his interactions with fellow soldiers, or the challenges he faced on the battlefield, Cooke skillfully captures the essence of these moments, placing the reader at the heart of the narrative. The research behind this biography is commendable, as Cooke draws from a wide range of primary and secondary sources to construct a well-supported and credible account of Gen. Lee's life. This attention to detail ensures the accuracy and reliability of the information presented, contributing to the book's overall quality. While the biography is undoubtedly well-crafted, it may be challenging for those without a strong interest in American history to fully engage with the subject matter. However, for enthusiasts of military history, the Civil War era, or those seeking a deeper understanding of Lee's contribution, this book is an excellent choice. In conclusion, A Life of Gen. Robert E. Lee by John Esten Cooke is a meticulously researched and expertly written biography that paints a comprehensive portrait of one of the most revered figures in American history. Cooke's nuanced approach and attention to detail offer readers a captivating glimpse into Lee's life, both in times of triumph and adversity. Whether one is an avid history buff or just a curious reader, this biography is a worthwhile exploration of an extraordinary man and his impact on the United States. First Page: [Illustration] A LIFE OF GEN. ROBERT E. LEE. BY JOHN ESTEN COOKE. "Duty is the sublimest word in our language." "Human virtue should be equal to human calamity." LEE. 1876 CONTENTS. PART I. LEE'S EARLY LIFE . I. Introduction II. The Lees of Virginia III. General "Light Horse Harry" Lee IV. Stratford V. Lee's Early Manhood and Career in the United States Army VI. Lee and Scott VII. Lee resigns VIII. His Reception at Richmond IX. Lee in 1861 X. The War begins XI. Lee's Advance into Western Virginia XII. Lee's Last Interview with Bishop Meade PART II. IN FRONT OF RICHMOND . I. Plan of the Federal Campaign II. Johnston is wounded III. Lee assigned to the Command his Family at the White House IV. Lee resolves to attack V. Stuart's "Ride around McClellan" PART III. ON THE CHICKAHOMINY . I. The Two Armies II. Lee's Plan of Assault III. The Battle of the Chickahominy IV. The Retreat V. Richmond in Danger Lee's Views VI. Lee and McClellan their Identity of Opinion PART IV. THE WAR ADVANCES NORTHWARD . I. Lee's Protest II. Lee's Manoeuvres III. Lee advances from the Rapidan IV. Jackson flanks General Pope V. Lee follows VI. The Second Battle of Manassas PART V... Continue reading book >>

A Life of Gen. Robert E. Lee By: John Esten Cooke (1830-1886)

John Esten Cooke's biography, A Life of Gen. Robert E. Lee, provides readers with a comprehensive and balanced account of the notable Confederate General's life. The author successfully brings forth a detailed portrayal of Gen. Lee, shedding light on his character, accomplishments, and challenges.

Cooke's writing style is engaging and insightful, capturing the essence of Lee's life story with meticulous attention to detail. From Lee's early years to his impressive military career and later struggles during the American Civil War, the narrative unfolds smoothly, effortlessly drawing readers into the tumultuous era.

One of the book's strengths lies in Cooke's ability to present both the successes and hardships experienced by Lee. Rather than painting an overly romanticized image, the author delves into the complexities of Lee's life and decisions, providing readers with a nuanced and comprehensive understanding of this iconic figure. Cooke addresses controversies surrounding Lee's leadership style and the moral dilemmas he faced, showcasing his human side and making him relatable to readers.

Furthermore, the author adeptly intertwines historical events and intimate anecdotes, creating a vibrant and well-rounded portrait of Lee. Whether detailing his relationships with family, his interactions with fellow soldiers, or the challenges he faced on the battlefield, Cooke skillfully captures the essence of these moments, placing the reader at the heart of the narrative.

The research behind this biography is commendable, as Cooke draws from a wide range of primary and secondary sources to construct a well-supported and credible account of Gen. Lee's life. This attention to detail ensures the accuracy and reliability of the information presented, contributing to the book's overall quality.

While the biography is undoubtedly well-crafted, it may be challenging for those without a strong interest in American history to fully engage with the subject matter. However, for enthusiasts of military history, the Civil War era, or those seeking a deeper understanding of Lee's contribution, this book is an excellent choice.

In conclusion, A Life of Gen. Robert E. Lee by John Esten Cooke is a meticulously researched and expertly written biography that paints a comprehensive portrait of one of the most revered figures in American history. Cooke's nuanced approach and attention to detail offer readers a captivating glimpse into Lee's life, both in times of triumph and adversity. Whether one is an avid history buff or just a curious reader, this biography is a worthwhile exploration of an extraordinary man and his impact on the United States.

First Page:

[Illustration]

A LIFE OF GEN. ROBERT E. LEE.

BY JOHN ESTEN COOKE.

"Duty is the sublimest word in our language." "Human virtue should be equal to human calamity."

LEE.

1876

CONTENTS.

PART I.

LEE'S EARLY LIFE .

I. Introduction

II. The Lees of Virginia

III. General "Light Horse Harry" Lee

IV. Stratford

V. Lee's Early Manhood and Career in the United States Army

VI. Lee and Scott

VII. Lee resigns

VIII. His Reception at Richmond

IX. Lee in 1861

X. The War begins

XI. Lee's Advance into Western Virginia

XII. Lee's Last Interview with Bishop Meade

PART II.

IN FRONT OF RICHMOND .

I. Plan of the Federal Campaign

II. Johnston is wounded

III. Lee assigned to the Command his Family at the White House

IV. Lee resolves to attack

V. Stuart's "Ride around McClellan"

PART III.

ON THE CHICKAHOMINY .

I. The Two Armies

II. Lee's Plan of Assault

III. The Battle of the Chickahominy

IV. The Retreat

V. Richmond in Danger Lee's Views

VI. Lee and McClellan their Identity of Opinion

PART IV.

THE WAR ADVANCES NORTHWARD .

I. Lee's Protest

II. Lee's Manoeuvres

III. Lee advances from the Rapidan

IV. Jackson flanks General Pope

V. Lee follows

VI. The Second Battle of Manassas

PART V... Continue reading book >>

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