McDonough's 'Chattanooga - A Death Grip on the Confederacy'

[John of the Skulkers Mess]

Seeking any opinions about this book put out by University of Tennessee Press back in the 80s. (1980s)

John Pillers

[Arch Campbell]

Re: McDonough's 'Chattanooga - A Death Grip on the Confederacy'

I own a copy and have since the late 80's. It's probably been 10 years since I read it last. At the time in the 80's, I had just "discovered" the western theater (as embarrassing as that is to admit as an Iowan, I am sure most people who get into the Civil War need a few years to get past the Cattonite propaganda) and this book was the only one out there on Missionary Ridge and Lookout Mountain.
Again, I haven't read it in several years, but I have a positive impression of it. I don't know if this is a good or bad thing for you, but it doesn't go as much into the hyper-detailed brigade and regimental movements like Shipwreck (Cozzens.) Because of that, it makes for an easier read and better "story"- again, I leave that up to you as to whether that is a plus for you or not.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention that there has been some controversy over the years as to McDonough's scholarship- not its accuracy, but rather whether it is his or not. I don't know all the details, so I won't say more. There are two sides to every story, and I don't know either very well so I will err on the side of not offending anyone (hopefully.) Regardless, it is my understanding that the accuracy of the contents of his books are NOT in question, so I continue to enjoy them and let the controversy pass me by.

[missourirelics]

Re: McDonough's 'Chattanooga - A Death Grip on the Confederacy'

Pillars, it's a great book, as is Peter Cozzen's book on Chattanooga. I have a copy if you wish to borrow.

Paul Arnold

[boozie]

Re: McDonough's 'Chattanooga - A Death Grip on the Confederacy'

I own copies of McDonough's, Cozzens and Wiley Sword's " Mountains Touched With Fire." You can't go wrong with any of the three, each one has it's own perspective.

My favorite is McDonough's, for the simple fact that he touches on Lt. Col. Neff and the 40th Indiana Infantry more than the other two.:)

[LWhite64]

Re: McDonough's 'Chattanooga - A Death Grip on the Confederacy'

John,
Its pretty dated by now, best bet would be Woodworth's Six Armies in Tennessee.

Lee