Gr 6-8-In each book, the main focus is on the conflict, its geography and personalities, along with explanations of how each battle favored the North or the South. In September, 1862, Antietam pitted forces commanded by George McClellan against those of Robert E. Lee. In America's bloodiest day of war, the combined losses of both sides totaled 22,719 casualties. In July, 1863, Union and Confederate forces met at Gettysburg and engaged in the greatest battle of the war. Bull Run at Manassas in July, 1861, brought picnickers and sightseers from Washington, DC, many of whom believed this would be the one large battle of a short war. The recitation of casualty numbers and an explanation of how the Civil War was the first modern war with its weapons and use of technology, including the railroad, are significant features of these titles. Each volume includes a few quotes from primary sources and sidebars that highlight personalities and other topics. Full-color maps, black-and-white photos, reproductions, and illustrations accompany the texts. Additional choices for Civil War buffs.-Patricia Ann Owens, Wabash Valley College, Mt. Carmel, IL Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.
