Lieutenant General James Longstreet: Innovative Military Strategist: The Most Misunderstood Civil War General

F. Gregory Toretta

Apr 2023 · Tantor Media Inc · Narrated by Al Kessel

About this audiobook

Lieutenant-General James Longstreet, commander of the First Corps of the Army of Northern Virginia, was a brilliant tactician and strategist. Prior to the Civil War there were many technological developments, of which the rifled musket and cannon, rail transport, and the telegraph were a few. Longstreet adapted to these technological changes and the disparity between the belligerents making recommendations on how the war should be fought. Unfortunately, his advice was not heeded and given the weight it deserved. In contrast to many other southern generals, Longstreet advocated for defensive warfare, using entrenchments and trying to maneuver the enemy to assault his position, conserving manpower, resources, and supplies. Longstreet was a pragmatic and methodical general and had his suggestions been utilized there would have been a better outcome for the South. Many historians and biographers have misunderstood Longstreet and his motives, not focusing on the total picture. This work offers a fresh and unique perspective on Lieutenant-General James Longstreet and the Civil War. This narrative takes a new viewpoint of the Civil War and the generals who tailored their designs to pursue the war, analyzes Longstreet's views of the generals and the tactics and strategy they employed, and examines why Longstreet proposed and urged a new type of warfare.

About the author

F. Gregory Toretta is a writer and historian with a passion for the American Civil War, accumulating an extensive library and undertaking copious research.

Al Kessel is a full-time narrator and voice actor currently living in Arizona, where he works from his professional home recording studio.