Library's review
Woodworth's claim of "nothing but victory" is exaggerated as the Army of Tennessee witnessed a number of near disasters (Belmont, Ft Donelson, Shiloh) and setbacks (Chickasaw Bayou, Resaca, Kennesaw) distinguished from defeat only by the ineptitude of the Confederate leadership and Grant's unwillingness to quit.
Woodworth is soft on Grant and his boys and harsh about others (McClernand, Rosecrans, Thomas). Compare Woodworth's treatment of McPherson's hesitation in the Atlanta campaign and Rosecrans' caution at Corinth. Grant is a master strategist but a lousy tactician. If Grant had positioned himself at his weakest general's command post, he might have averted many mishaps and limited his casualties. Instead, he stayed with his favorites which further reduced the communication flow with the outsiders (McClernand, Rosecrans, Thomas) who then did not meet Grant's expectations, triggering the next round of alienation.
Overall, a magnificent book which gives voice both to the commanders and the common man. The book could be even better if it included more than a single map. A scarcity of maps seems to be a Woodworth trademark.
User reviews
There is also no doubt that the author loves him some U.S. Grant, and could probably have stood to have been more critical. On the other hand it is refreshing to see Henry Halleck get the drubbing he so richly deserves. Woodworth's unvarnished attitude in regards to federal command politics is probably the main attraction for the experienced reader.
Finally, as has also been commented upon, one map for a whole war does not cut it.
Publication
Description
Composed almost entirely of Midwesterners and molded into a lean, skilled fighting machine by Ulysses S. Grant and William Tecumseh Sherman, the Army of the Tennessee marched directly into the heart of the Confederacy and won major victories at Shiloh and at the rebel strongholds of Vicksburg and Atlanta.Acclaimed historian Steven Woodworth has produced the first full consideration of this remarkable unit that has received less prestige than the famed Army of the Potomac but was responsible for the decisive victories that turned the tide of war toward the Union. The Army of the Tennessee also shaped the fortunes and futures of both Grant and Sherman, liberating them from civilian life and catapulting them onto the national stage as their triumphs grew. A thrilling account of how a cohesive fighting force is forged by the heat of battle and how a confidence born of repeated success could lead soldiers to expect “nothing but victory.”… (more)