In the early morning hours of November 4th, 1791, the US Army suffered its single-most decisive defeat in history at the hands of a band of Native American tribes. In three hours that fateful day, nearly half of the roughly 1400 US soldiers lay dead on the field - a man killed every 15 seconds. In addition, there were more than 270 wounded, giving a total casualty rate of 67%. Of the roughly 1000 Natives engaged, they only suffered about 60 casualties, a testament to their complete and total victory. Author and historian Steven P Locke explains in meticulous detail how such a disaster, for the newly-formed Republic, could have occurred.
Using an extensive bibliography, including well over 150 books, personal journals and letters, manuscripts, correspondences, and official records, Mr. Locke confirms his knowledge and expertise on the subject, and has propelled himself as the new authority on this battle. The amount of information presented is extensive, but is written in a way that is easily absorbed.
The book describes how and why westward expansion had to occur, and how that clashed with the Tribes’ determination to not allow settlers north and west above the Ohio River. It essentially breaks down the subject into four main characters: 1 The Federal Government, mainly represented by Secretary of War Henry Knox, who was eager to speed up the campaign to obtain land and distribute it to citizens safely and in an orderly fashion; 2 The US Army, comprised of Regulars, Levies, and Militia, led by Major General Arthur St. Clair, and their monumental task under difficult circumstances; 3 Settlers, surveyors, and land speculators, who were eager to obtain such land despite the dangers; 4 The group of nine tribes (the Indian Confederacy), led by Chiefs Little Turtle, Blue Jacket, and Buckongahelus, and how they were determined to hold onto their tribal lands. Each of the characters are covered equally.
Of particular interest to some might be the way the author described the assemblage of the tribes that formed the Indian Confederacy. This alliance, Locke argues, was “the longest lasting and most successful such alliance in history, keeping an effective fighting force together in various forms between 1786 and 1794”, and “was as dangerous and imposing a military foe as any European troops the United States faced on the continent between 1775 and 1783.” This is remarkable, given the fact they lacked a formal military command structure.
In short, this is an excellent book. It is exceptionally detailed and illuminating, but is well written and easy to read. It not only describes the battle well, but all aspects leading up to it - plus a discussion on the aftermath, winners and losers, and causes of defeat for the US Army. It covers both combatants equally well without favoring one side over the other. I learned so much from reading it. I would love to see this book made into a movie: think “The last of the Mohicans” meets “Waterloo”. Whether you are a historian, have an interest in military conflicts, or just like a good read, “War Along the Wabash” simply must be a part of your collection.
Enjoy fast, free delivery, exclusive deals, and award-winning movies & TV shows with Prime
Try Prime
and start saving today with fast, free delivery
Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required.
Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.
Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.
Book recommendations, author interviews, editors' picks, and more. Read it now
Frequently bought together
$26.76
Get it as soon as Saturday, May 18
In Stock
Total price:
To see our price, add these items to your cart.
Choose items to buy together.
Similar items that may ship from close to you
Page 1 of 1 Start overPage 1 of 1
