American Lives, Volume II Book

This book is exactly the reason that I love Non Fiction - because this is a real story. It's true. And while the details might have to be fleshed out from letters and documents of a bygone era, it doesn't change the fact that Nathan Bedford Forrest was a remarkable man.

If you are a student of the Civil War or a resident of the deep South, you have probably heard Forrest's name. Most notably it is connected with a massacre of Black troops at Fort Pillow and as First Grand Wizard of the KKK. But even those details cannot be taken at face value of what we understand them to be today. Forrest was one of the greatest American Cavalrymen to ever ride a horse. Although untrained in military methods, Forrest had an uncanny ability to make the most of any situation - even when vastly outnumbered. His name invoked fear in the hearts of the Union soldiers.

There is so much more to Forrest's story than his Civil War service - and even a surprise and unexpected ending. Looking back on his life, the author fleshes out a Forrest that is unseen by many because the world is too busy trying to define him by atrocities which may or may not have been his fault. It's an eye opening account.

I personally grew up in the Midwest, and had a very scant education on the details of the Civil War. In teaching my children about the history of this country, I have gained my own unexpected passion for this conflict, and have enjoyed the opportunity to learn about the many amazing men that have fought on both sides - some whose names I never even knew. Forrest is one of these. I have very much enjoyed learning about his life, and the war in the west.

Recommend for: Students of the Civil War.