In "Custer Battlefield: A History And Guide To The Battle Of The Little Bighorn," Robert Marshall Utley presents a comprehensive and engaging account of one of the most famous battles in American history. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Utley brings to life the events leading up to the Battle of the Little Bighorn and the tragic aftermath that followed.

Utley's writing is clear and concise, making it easy for readers to follow the complex sequence of events that culminated in General George Armstrong Custer's ill-fated decision to engage the Sioux and Cheyenne warriors at Little Bighorn. His analysis of the tactics and strategies employed by both sides offers valuable insights into the military dynamics of the time.

One of the strengths of this book is Utley's ability to seamlessly blend historical facts with engaging anecdotes and personal accounts, adding depth and humanity to the larger narrative. By incorporating the perspectives of both Native American warriors and U.S. Army soldiers, he paints a nuanced and balanced picture of the Battle of the Little Bighorn.

Additionally, Utley provides readers with practical information for visiting the battlefield itself, including detailed maps and directions to key sites of interest. This makes the book not only a compelling historical read, but also a valuable resource for those looking to explore the battlefield in person.

Overall, "Custer Battlefield" is a must-read for anyone interested in American history, military history, or the complex legacy of westward expansion. Utley's authoritative account and compelling storytelling make this book a captivating and informative addition to the literature on the Battle of the Little Bighorn.

Book Description:
It should be noted that this national park is now called the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument. “The long, tragic history of Indian warfare in the American West reached its climax with the defeat of Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer and his 7th Cavalry in Montana’s valley of the Little Bighorn River on June 25, 1876. Although the Indians won the battle, they subsequently lost the war against the white man’s efforts to end their independent way of life. The story of the battle and its consequences is told in the following pages by Robert M. Utley in a compelling narrative of an event that has excited the imagination and provoked controversy every since it happened.” This is U.S. National Park Service Handbook 132, published in 1987. There are many sidebars of maps, photographs, and illustrations with informative text. Many – not all - of these sidebar texts are recorded at the end of the main text in each section. The author is a well regarded historian with 22 books to his credit who specializes in the American West. - Summary by Book Preface and David Wales