A Single Grand Victory

Ethan Rafuse has produced the book to read on First Manassas. -- John F. Marszalek, Mississippi State University
Well written, judicious, and unfailingly interesting, A Single Grand Victory combines capable battle narrative with a firm grasp of the larger political context. Highly recommended. -- Mark Grimsley, Ohio State University
The author has given us a sophisticated and exciting narrative of First Manassas, the campaign and battle that foretold a long and costly war for the Union and the Confederacy. Every page is alive with the tension and chaos of Americans-leaders, citizens, and soldiers-grappling with the political, social, and military challenges of warfare on a large scale, and of a shocking brutality, that few had ever imagined. A Single Grand Victory is a superb addition to the American Crisis series. -- T. Michael Parrish, past president, Society of Civil War Historians, Baylor University
This book is an excellent overview of the battle that opened the Civil War and a good introduction to the war itself. It will appeal to a variety of readers. -- LTC Clayton R. Newell, USA-Ret.
Ethan Rafuse'e A Single Grand Victory presents a notable account of the Civil War's first real battle. As part of the American Crisis Series, this work ably moves the reader through the social and political perceptions of impending battle, the decision-making of both military organizations, as well as the tangled conflict itself in a short, erudite volume. Throughout, Rafuse makes good use of well-established secondary and published primary sources. He is to be commended particularly for strong introductory chapters, attempting to place the unfolding of this particular battle within the volatile context of the day. Moreover, his discussion of battle is always clear and direct, providing rich detail without losing its narrative energy. It is a satisfying read, well-tailored to its mission of providing a succinct volume suitable for the enthusiast, student and novice alike. * Military History Of The West *