November 2023 – Ryan’s Book Blog

Jackson: The Iron Willed Commander

November 14, 2023 by Ryan

Background

Published in 2012, “Jackson: The Iron-Willed Commander,” authored by Paul Vickery, offers an insightful examination of Andrew Jackson’s ascent from humble origins to a pivotal figure in American history, focusing on his military achievements and presidential tenure. The book highlights Jackson’s unwavering determination and leadership, particularly during the War of 1812, underscoring his pivotal role in shaping American nationalism. Through exploring Jackson’s significant contributions and the challenges he overcame, Vickery portrays a leader whose influence was crucial during a formative period in the United States, leaving a lasting imprint on the nation’s trajectory.

My Thoughts

Old Hickory himself! As I was reading this, I was reminded of General Mattis. Jackson was loved by his men because he was one of them. (Or at least they saw it that way.) As a general he was fantastic and seemed to do no wrong. Of course, his treatment of the Native American’s will always follow him. He is one of those people who make you wonder if it is the events that make the man or the man that makes the events.

Recommendation

A good book

All Roads Led To Gettysburg

November 5, 2023 by Ryan

Background

Published in August of 2022, “All Roads Led to Gettysburg,” revisits the Civil War’s crucial battle with a novel lens, disputing the idea that the engagement was coincidental. He explores the pre-battle maneuvers and geographical considerations that funneled the opposing forces to Gettysburg, underscoring the roles of transportation routes and natural landscapes in dictating the battle’s dynamics. Harman’s analysis redefines our understanding of this historic clash, suggesting a degree of inevitability to the confrontation due to strategic and environmental factors.

My Thoughts

This book took a fascinating look at the geography and terrain of the civil war era and made a convincing case of the inevitability of the outcomes. I had heard quite a bit about the railroads of the North and how that helped win the war. However, this went over and beyond to roads, waterways, and so on.

Recommendation

A good read

Killers of the Flower Moon

November 3, 2023 by Ryan

Background

Published in 2017, “Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI” is a nonfiction book by David Grann. It narrates the chilling and little-known history of the Osage murders in the 1920s. The Osage Nation in Oklahoma became immensely wealthy due to oil reserves under their land, which led to a series of brutal murders as outsiders schemed to claim their wealth. The book unfolds in three parts, detailing the Osage community’s tragedy, the investigation led by the fledgling FBI, and Grann’s contemporary investigation into the murders that delves deeper into the conspiracy and its wide-reaching impact.

My Thoughts

A very sad tale of greed and corruption in American history. We love to romanticize the old West, but there were some terrible things that occurred during that period. It makes me thankful to live in our world today.

Recommendation

It was well written, but a rough topic. I have little to no desire to see the movie.