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On the Trail of Deserters A Phenomenal Capture   By:

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On the Trail of Deserters: A Phenomenal Capture by Captain Robert Goldthwaite Carter offers readers a gripping and meticulously detailed account of one captain's relentless pursuit of deserters during the American Civil War. Carter's writing is both a historical narrative and a personal memoir, providing readers with an intimate understanding of the emotional toll and complex decision-making that characterized this era.

One of the standout qualities of this book is Captain Carter's ability to weave together historical context, personal anecdotes, and military strategy. The author's extensive research is evident in every page, as he seamlessly integrates the larger narrative of the war with his own experiences as a captain tasked with apprehending deserters. From explaining the reasons behind the desertions to detailing the various challenges faced by both deserters and pursuers, Carter presents a rich and comprehensive view of this often overlooked aspect of the Civil War.

What truly sets this book apart is Carter's commitment to authenticity. The author's firsthand experience as a captain during the war adds credibility to his account, immersing readers in the chaos and uncertainty of the time. Moreover, he does not shy away from discussing the moral complexities of his mission. He grapples with questions of duty, loyalty, and the blurry line between desertion and self-preservation. Through introspection and self-reflection, Carter invites readers to ponder the inherent struggles faced by soldiers on both sides.

The writing style is engaging and accessible, making it suitable for both avid history enthusiasts and casual readers interested in the human stories behind the war. Carter's vivid descriptions transport readers to the battlefields, camps, and towns he traverses, evoking a strong sense of time and place. Additionally, he skillfully balances the historical narrative with personal anecdotes, breathing life into the individuals he encounters.

On the Trail of Deserters is not without its flaws, however. The pacing occasionally feels slow, especially during lengthy descriptions of military maneuvers that may not resonate with all readers. Furthermore, some may find the author's perspective to be one-sided, as he presents the deserters primarily as misguided men rather than considering their individual circumstances. While Carter acknowledges the complexity of motivations, a more balanced exploration would have added depth to the narrative.

Overall, On the Trail of Deserters: A Phenomenal Capture is an engrossing and thought-provoking account of the less explored aspects of the Civil War. Captain Robert Goldthwaite Carter's dedication to historical accuracy, combined with his captivating storytelling, makes this book a worthwhile read for anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the harsh realities faced by soldiers during this turbulent period in American history.

First Page:

ON THE TRAIL OF DESERTERS

A Phenomenal Capture

By Captain Robert Goldthwaite Carter U. S. ARMY

WASHINGTON, D. C. GIBSON BROS., PRINTERS, 1920

On The Trail of Deserters.

The year of 1871 had been so full of incidents and far reaching results for the Fourth Cavalry and its new Colonel, Ranald S. Mackenzie, that it is somewhat difficult to go back into the dim vistas of that period and select the one incident, or absorbing event which would be either of greatest magnitude or afford the most thrilling interest

This capture of ten deserters, however, under circumstances of more than ordinary importance, since it is believed to be the record capture ever made in the Military Department of Texas, or, perhaps for that matter, of any Military Department in the United States came about as closely in touch with the writer's life as almost any other experience he ever had while serving as an officer of that regiment including, as it did, terrible exposure, and unavoidable hardships and privations

Like all of the other Cavalry regiments in our Army, which were then doing about three fourths of all the active, effective work the work that disables or kills in the subjugation of the savage tribes in the United States, driving them into Indian reservations, and rendering it possible for the frontier border to be settled, and civilization to be advanced to a point where it could feel safe from raids and bloody incursions, the Fourth U... Continue reading book >>




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