Grant's Cavalryman: The Life and Wars of General James H. Wilson

by Edward G. Longacre

Born in Shawneetown, Illinois in time to be newly graduated from West Point when the Civil War started, James H. Wilson became a brigadier general by the age of twenty-six. Fueled by boundless ambition and the desire to serve his country, he reorganized the Union cavalry in time to gain the upper hand over the Confederate army. But the story of this brash, young man did not end with the capture of Jefferson Davis, for which Wilson was ultimately responsible. His life after the Civil War was also representative of American tenacity in the midst of explosive growth and change during the late-nineteenth century. He became a military governor in Georgia during Reconstruction, a railroad baron from the start of the Industrial Revolution, and a military advisor during World War I. The story of Wilson’s life remains a compelling example for us in these rapidly changing times, and resonates as an excellent account of one man’s lasting impression on his century.

Genres: Civil War

320 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1996

Reviews

[Braxton Bird · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great read!

Edward G. Longacre did a great job describing the life of James H. Wilson. Unlike some history books, it did not drag. There was a lot of interesting facts about this unspoken hero and about the Civil War that I could not find anywhere online. The best part was that the author did not idolize the character. He showed that General Wilson had his faults, but also that he shouldn't be defined by them. For anyone who wants to learn more about the hardships of the managing a war, of the complexities of mid to late 1800's, and several amazing moments of bravery and integrity, I highly recommend this book to you.

[William Keyser · Rating 5 out of 5]

James H. Wilson proud member of the "Get There Gang"

This was a remarkable book about a man, his driven passion, unbridled courage, and extreme patriotism. He was the only man that Nathan Bedford Forrest said bested him. That says a great deal. Outspoken, quick to make enemies, but history shows that he was right much more than he was wrong. He worked under many great men and they trusted him. At 27 years old he was a Major General and had earned his stripes the hard way.