Reminiscences of the Civil War

by John B. Gordon, Stephen D. Lee (Introduction), Frances Gordon Smith (Prologue)

GENERAL JOHN B. GORDON'S last work was the publishing of his "Reminiscences of the Civil War." This volume, written in his vigorous style and broad, patriotic spirit, has been most favorably received and read all over the country. Since his death this memorial edition is brought out; and it is appropriate that an additional introduction should accompany it, somewhat in the shape of a biographical sketch. General John Brown Gordon was an all-round great man--a valiant and distinguished soldier, an eminent statesman, a great orator, an author of merit, and a public-spirited and useful citizen. He was born in Upson County, Georgia, February 6, 1832. His father was the Rev. Zachary Herndon Gordon. The family was of Scotch extraction, and its members fought in the Revolutionary War. He received his education at the university of his native State, and by profession was a lawyer. At the breaking out of the war, in 1861, he enlisted as a private soldier, and was elected captain of his company. His career was perhaps as brilliant as that of any officer in the Confederate army. In rapid succession he filled every grade--that of Major, Lieutenant-Colonel, Colonel, Brigadier-General, Major-General, and, near the end, was assigned to duty as Lieutenant-General (by authority of the Secretary of War), and while he never received the commission in regular form, he commanded, at the surrender at Appomattox, one half of the Army of Northern Virginia, under Robert E. Lee. At the close of the war he had earned the reputation of being perhaps the most conspicuous and personally valiant officer surviving, and the one generally regarded as most promising and competent for increased rank and larger command. His imposing and magnificent soldierly bearing, coupled with his splendid ringing voice and far-reaching oratory, made him the "White-plumed Knight of our Southland" and the "Chevalier Bayard of the Confederate Army." He had the God-given talent of getting in front of his troops and, in a few magnetic appeals, inspiring them almost to madness, and being able to lead them into the jaws of death. This was notably done at Fredericksburg, and again on the 12th of May, at the battle of Spottsylvania Court House. He greatly distinguished himself on many bloody fields. I mention now, as most prominent, the battles of Seven Pines, Sharpsburg or Antietam, the Wilderness, Spottsylvania Court House, Cedar Creek, Petersburg, and Appomattox. At Sharpsburg he was wounded five times, but would not leave his troops till the last shot laid him helpless and insensible on the field. A scholarly professor of history in one of our Southern universities recently stated that in his study of the great war on both sides he had found but one prominent general who, when he was in command, or when he led a charge, had never been defeated or repulsed, and that general was John B. Gordon.

Genres: Civil War, History, Biography, American History, American Civil War, Memoir, Military History

304 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1903

About the author

John B. Gordon was a Confederate officer in the American Civil War. He was born in Upson County, Georgia, on his father's plantation, and attended the University of Georgia, proving himself a distinguished student. He passed the bar examination and practiced law until the outbreak of the war, at which point he was elected captain of a company of mountaineers. He quickly rose to brigadier general, and distinguished himself during a series of campaigns. Badly wounded at the Battle of Antietam, he spend months recovering and rejoined the war as a brigade commander under Jubal A. Early. Through the latter parts of the war, he began to rise to even more dramatic prominence, serving a crucial role as more and more of Lee's senior commanders were killed, injured, or became unreliable. After the end of the war, he was an extreme opponent of reconstruction and is generally acknowledged to have been the titular head of the Ku Klux Klan. Gordon served as the first Commander-in-Chief of the United Confederate Veterans and authored several memoirs, dying in Miami, Florida in 1904.

Reviews

[Don Lowrance · Rating 5 out of 5]

More than I expected after reading several books on the Civil War by contemporary writers. His account is both vivid and gripping. The language reveals a classical education that vey few can boast of in the sad culture we live in. I highly recommend this book, not as the first to read on the Civil War but as one you read to give life and emotion to the facts. Gordon's world was one full of chivalry with a high view of character and brotherhood.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this. So easy to read. It's like listening to your close friend tell you of their experiences. John Gordon's judgement of character is impressive. Though he may at times be too complementary of some who are likely undeserving, he backs up his praise with facts, and history has by and large concurred with his impressions. I would recommend this book to any who desires to compare and contrast the traits of good character, manhood, and honor with self aggrandizement, cowardice, and worthlessness. John Gordon shines a masterful flashlight on men of each type. In these present days of propaganda, and lies, it is difficult for some to understand the differences between a strong leader like Benjamin Netanyahu and a defensive whining and disingenuous Obama, but if you compare Robert E. Lee and an arrogant and lazy Joe Hooker, or a smug and vindictive Andrew Johnson, or even paranoid and egotistical Jefferson Davis, the differences are obvious.

[Sean Chick · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well written but Gordan plays fast and loose with the facts and he was obsessed with his public image, the Lost Cause mythology, and the desire for reconciliation. As such it lacks the wit, sarcasm, and intelligence of Richard Taylor's memoir. It has none of the clarity of Grant's memoirs (also to be treated with some caution) nor the brilliant passages in Sherman's memoirs. Still, Gordon, was a solid writer and his work is more readable than similar fare from McClellan, Longstreet, and a number of other generals.

[R B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book. General Gordon's first hand description of the battle of Sharpsburg causes the reader to hear the cannons and smell the smoke. A very fair and balanced recollection for one so immersed in the war between the states.

[Randy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve read dozens, maybe even 100, books about the Civil War. I probably qualify as a Civil War buff, an interest developed because my namesake great, great uncle was killed during the Seven Days Battles near Richmond. He left a diary which fascinated me as a youngster. This fascination continued into adulthood and on retirement I was able to take a trip and follow his route of march visiting the battle sites, some of which, including where he was killed, are on private property. My interest leans toward the Confederate side and I thought I was familiar with most of the main characters. However, I missed General Gordon in my studies. This is perhaps because in the earlier battles he was mostly a regimental commander. Yet he was a genuine war hero, a man of civilian background who discovered an aptitude for leadership and tactics. He was wounded many times including taking five bullets at Gettysburg. He survived, participated in most of the battles fought by the Army of Virginia and was with Lee at Appomatox. After the war he had a long, distinguished career as a politician. His memoir, written with the perspective and distance of many years after the end of the war puts the best face possible on both the Union and Confederate sides. One will get the idea from his reminiscences that the war was something akin to an Alabama vs Penn State football contest where sportsmanship and honor trumped blood and bullets. He does not overlook but doesn’t dwell on the carnage. He writes uncritically about most of the characters. When he does he balances his criticism with positive comments. One could conclude that his motive as a memoirist was to attempt to heal wounds that festered then and continue to the present day. It’s clear from his memoir that individuals are important. He nearly deifies Robert Lee and puts US Grant on a high pedestal. The Civil War is interesting on many levels because we came very close to being two separate countries on the same continent. The war no doubt had slavery as the main issue but this doesn’t explain the martial ardor of the rank and file Confederate soldier who did not own slaves. Gordon continually equates the Southern cause to the rebellion that was the American Revolution. Lee was his George Washington. Of course Lee came close to being General in command of the Union army. Had he taken that course the “rebellion” might have ended very quickly. And if a Southern commander had not halted his troops when the the Union was in full retreat at first Bull Run, the South could have march all the way (30 miles) to DC and taken it. Gordon is an effective writer and the memoir is both highly readable and entertaining juxtaposing battle reports and analysis with personal anecdotes. Most interesting was that Mrs. Gordon stayed very close to the General throughout the war. The General has relit my interest and I am moving next to the memoir of General Porter Alexander another Confederate who promises a more critical take on the conflict.

[Frank · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best memoirs I've read written by a participant in the Civil War. The writer is clearly well-read and articulate which makes this well worth reading, that is if you like reading about the Civil War.

The author explains what happened at the battles he participated in and the plan of action and explains as well what happens during the battle and its outcome and if necessary reasons for its not ending as he and others had planed. He's pretty free with commentary about individuals with respect to their moral character and in their execution of duty. There's almost no blame for what anyone may or may not have done except for one general whose reason for the outcome of a battle is decidedly at variance with everyone else's recollection. My opinion is this is quite a good read and should be read by those interested in the subject be they Civil War memoirs or the Civil War in genera.

[Forrest Cunningham · Rating 4 out of 5]

White Entitlement and Chivalry; Not Much on Slavery

General Gordon is an excellent writer. He paints vivid word pictures of the Southern cause and it's many adherents. This book is useful for examining the composition and thinking of soldiers on both sides of the conflicts. They are truthfully brothers and sons of the same country. What General Gordon leaves out completely is the viewpoint of the black race. In this, he can be excused because it is neither his purpose or intent to address such concerns. It is up to the reader to recognize the writer's privileged view of history, ethics, and even religion, and to see clearly beyond the bubble of White Privilege.

[Denise K. Maples · Rating 4 out of 5]

General Gordon

Read this over several weeks, so it was fragmented. However, it confirmed some of the things I've read about John Gordon and I've found that he seemed to be a man of integrity. But because I didn't read this quicker, I don't have a more cogent synopsis. . The 4-Star rating is for the use of his descriptive writing style and storytelling ability. I also thought it very interesting that he gave an insight into RE Lee's persona.

[Kirby Maples]

Read this over several weeks, so it was fragmented. However, it confirmed some of the things I've read about John Gordon and I've found that he seemed to be a man of integrity. But because I didn't read this quicker, I don't have a more cogent synopsis. . The 4-Star rating is for the use of his descriptive writing style and storytelling ability. I also thought it very interesting that he gave an insight into RE Lee's persona.

[Fred W. Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an awesome book. I am always amazed and impressed by the command and fluency of language of these civil war period authors. How refreshing to see such command of the English language in this time of email and texting etc. A very inspiring and authoritative narrative. One of the best I have seen or read!

[Neil G Stewart III / Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best Memoir of the Civil War

Gen. Gordon's memoir is easily read and filled with details and commentary on battles, soldiers, and the leaders of North and South. This book should be read by all readers of the North and South. It should be required reading for military men, historians, and fans of the terrible war that nearly destroyed America.

[William Guerrant · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very interesting and enjoyable read. Gordon's aptly-labeled "reminiscences" are so well-written and engaging that a reader need not be a Civil War buff to enjoy them, although only buffs would make the effort. The book is as good a specimen of the Reconciliationist narrative in Civil War historiography as I have seen.

[Jarom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent perspective of the issues at hand to fight for one's beliefs concerning the Constitution, Amendments, Bill of Rights, and Declaration of Independence. This book illicits and highlights a more in-depth human take via ethos, pathos, and logos compared to any other history book compiled by historians could ever illustrate. 10/10 would recommend.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

An outstanding writer and general

An outstanding writer and general. A particularly important read in this era of historical revisionism. General Gordon seems objective and respectful to comrade and foe in relating his experiences.

[Bruce Tremper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Its very good read John Gordon at his best. Great General and Stateman

I have read many things about General John Gordon and this book is how I came to understand the true Southern man and his men.

[John Karlson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome

History written by the maker of history. What more to say, he was there, he did it and now he wrote it. Little wordy, but he had a lot to say - worth your time and energy.

[Robert Condry]

Great book by a better than average autobiographer. Most generals aren't great at telling their story, but Gordon is an exception.

[Andrew · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wish I had more positive things to say about this book, but I don't. It was disorganized, at times inaccurate or misleading, and mostly composed of sentimental drivel. Gordon's narrative jumps all over the place, is interspersed the the words of others far too often, and generally lacks in having anything interesting or insightful to say.

On top of all this, Gordon was so unwilling to say anything negative or possibly offensive about almost anyone that it completely impairs his ability to provide any useful analysis of events. The only people Gordon seems to be able to bring himself to criticize are Philip Sheridan (and he still couches his criticism of him in compliments) and Edwin Stanton. No, he also criticized Longstreet, Ewell, and Early. Gordon additionally also seems to think he could have won every battle he fought in, if only he'd been allowed to attack when he wanted. He also strays from recounting just the events that he was involved in and takes detours to cover campaigns in the Western Theatre, with which he had no personal experience.

There are some good parts, I enjoyed Gordons recounting of the early days of the war and the raising of the regiment he joined, but they're far outweighed by the many weaknesses of this book. If you're looking for a good memoir by a Civil War general, you have a lot of options, and almost all of them are better than Gordon.

[John A. Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A balanced view of the Civil War

In my readings of the Civil War, I have read that John Gordon's autobiography was a excellent and balanced read of a Southern Commander. I believe that it was.
Most autobiographical accounts written by combatants, especially by those in command, were written to justify poor judgment or improve their image. John Gordon needed no such proclamation. The only negative mention was Jubal Early's which was proven baseless by others.
The only negative thing I found was that Gordon's writing is a bit to wordy. For example, none can doubt the loyalty and bravery of the Confederate Soldiers. Gordon wasted paragraphs in each chapter on examples which were unnecessary and became boring.
However, for descriptions of battles as seen from the Southern viewpoint are very interesting.

[Straw · Rating 3 out of 5]

Oh boy was this a meandering stream of consciousness that was supposedly linked by battles or years. The vignettes were great, but the romanticism of Johnny love for Billy yank became a little overwhelming. The book really embodied the Lost Cause, hatred of Bragg and Johnson, and love between the sides that became legendary in mind and spirit around the turn of the century.

[Aaron Friedman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read