The Custer Reader

by Paul Andrew Hutton (Editor), Robert M. Utley (Foreword)

George Armstrong Custer, America’s most famously unfortunate soldier, has been the subject of scores of books, but The Custer Reader is unique as a substantial source of classic writings about and by him. Here is Custer as seen by himself, his contemporaries, and leading scholars. Even those steeped in Custeriana will discover new insights in these pieces. Combining first-person narratives, essays, and photographs, this book provides a complete introduction to Custer’s controversial personality and career and the evolution of the Custer myth.

Genres: History

608 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 1992

Reviews

[Schoppie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hutton has done a great job gathering some of the most important Custer articles on subjects ranging from the Civil War, Indians Wars, his famous "last stand," and the films, artwork, and myths surrounding the general. The ways in which Custer has been re-invented by novelists, films, and artwork since his death are described in great detail in this work. I highly recommend this book as "required reading" for anyone seeking a true understanding (if such can be acquired) of Custer and his place in history and myth.

[Nate Hendrix · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very interesting collection of writings both about and by Custer. Some of the passages were written soon after the massacre. I do find it interesting that Little Big Horn is referred to as a massacre and Gettysburg or the Falaise Gap are referred to as battles. This book was mentioned in Indian Yell by Michael Blake the author of Dances With Wolves.