Custer And His Wolverines: The Michigan Calvary Brigade, 1861-1865

By Edward G. Longacre

Book Overview

George Armstrong Custer, who famously made his last stand at the Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876, first achieved notoriety more than ten years earlier for his daring military exploits during the Civil War. Graduating (last in his class) in 1861 from West Point, he quickly joined the fighting, and went on to take part in nearly every major battle of the war. In 1863, he was promoted brigadier general-the youngest general in the Union army-and given charge of the Michigan cavalry brigade, which he dubbed "Wolverines."The Wolverines fought ferociously from 1863 to the end of the war under its flamboyant commander. Longacre covers in dramatic detail the brigade's critical defense of the Union line at Gettysburg, and the brigade's key role in surrounding Lee's army at Appomattox. By war's end, the Wolverines had gained the respect and admiration of the entire Union army for its bravery, and the brigade's famous red ties, emulating Custer, had become a well-known badge of pride and honor."A fine study of this famous command...a worthy addition to Longacre's previous works."- Blue & Gray Magazine

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0306813831
• ISBN13: 9780306813832
• Release Date: September 2004
• Publisher: Da Capo Press
• Length: 352 Pages
• Weight: 1.06 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.9" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

A Good Brigade History (but useless index)

As a history of the Michigan Brigade and its famous commander, this is a worthwhile addition to the library of Civil War and military history enthusiasts. It is well-written, engaging, and makes solid use of primary sources. Coverage of the formation of and early service of the various regiments is quite good. My only two serious complaints are: Inadequate maps - a real flaw for a military history; A terrible index - undoubtedly not the author's fault, but the index is useless in that the vast majority of people, places and events described in the text are nowhere to be found in the index. This is the book's main problem and it handicaps the reader. All that said, certainly a good item to have on your Civil War shelf.

Insights into Civil War history

The Michigan Cavalry Brigade achieved its' greatest triumphs under the command of George Armstrong Custer. The troops were greatly disappointed when he eventually moved on to higher command. Under his impetuous leadership the Brigade gained respect for the Union Cavalry and its' famous red ties, emulating Custer, were a badge of pride and honor. Books by members of the Michigan brigade make it clear that the youthful Custer was greatly respected by his troops. The book is a useful tome describing the times and experiences of this unit. Like most Civil War books it bypasses the hardships, disease and despondency of the troops in favor of describing the battle related history. The book is worthwhile reading for students of the war, cavalry and Custer.