The Edge of Glory

Related to the podcast this week, I would recommend The Edge of Glory by William Lamers for anyone that would like to dig deeper into Rosecrans. The author wrote from a number of personal papers from Rosecrans from public archives as well as in the hands of family descendants. It is the most complete look at the general that I have personally read.

Rosecrans was an interesting character, outspoken, and definitely dug a hole for himself at times with his relationships. Among others he had difficulties with Grant after Iuka, with Secretary Stanton, and some disputes with Garfield after Chickamauga.

Near the beginning of the book the author provides his description of Rosecrans including, "He possessed virtues and excellencies, some to an heroic degree. He was blessed with a brilliant, resourceful mind, and prodigious energy. No general, North or South, surpassed him in personal leadership, or in his courage in taking necessary risks on the battlefield. His patriotism and personal probity could not be questioned. But in excess his virtues sometimes became faults. He made enemies unwisely and needlessly. A perfectionist, he was critical and impatient of slipshod performance in others, yet he had himself some difficulty in delegating responsibility. He was no compromiser. He could be short of temper and long of tongue. Generally he was kindly and courteous to his inferiors, and sometimes brusque with his superiors."

As to the subject of the podcast this week at Stones River, one anecdote I enjoy that is cited in several places, including this book, is regarding Rosecrans interaction with a Colonel in Crittenden's Corps that was being left to guard a ford as Rosecrans shifted Crittenden's Corps to reinforce his crumbling right:

"Rosecrans becoming concerned about his now exposed left rode to Crittenden's remaining brigade. ""Will you hold this ford?" "I will try, sir", answered Colonel Price. "Will you hold this ford?" Rosecrans asked again. "I will die right here," he said. "Will you hold this ford?" "Yes, sir," Price replied. Rosecrans nodded. "That will do." "

Overall I found it to be a good read and worth tracking down a copy.