Sunday, May 15, 2011

Book Review - "Mr. Lincoln's High-Tech War"



"Mr Lincoln's High-Tech War" is a good summary of some of the major technological improvements occurring during the Civil War.  Though a valuable book, it is rather like a survey course, a great deal of details, but not a lot of depth.  Many of the technological improvements discussed here warrant lengthy tomes on their own (many have been written) in particular weapon inventions (Springfield repeaters, new breechloading rifles), the invention of the Ironclads and the Hunley, the very first submarine, all are covered better and in more depth in other books.  Also, though the use of the railroad and the invention of Morse Code are talked about, and an example given (Chattanooga relief) I felt it was underserved.  In addition, it might have been worth mentioning more about technology that didn't change (medicine) and the refusal of people (especially generals) to make use of these new technologies. 

"Mr. Lincoln's High-Tech War" was a good survey book, one I would proudly include on my Civil War bookcase, but should only be used as a jumping off point for further discussion of the various technologies used and the technological inventions being made during the Civil War.

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