This ebook is purpose built and is proof-read and re-type set from the original to provide an outstanding experience of reflowing text for an ebook reader. Includes Civil War Map and Illustrations Pack – 224 battle plans, campaign maps, and detailed analyses of actions spanning the entire period of hostilities. The high-tide of Confederate success had passed with Pickett's charge at the battle of Gettysburg; the Union armies were re-invigorated by fresh leadership under Lieut.-General U.S. Grant, who decided upon a campaign that was to push toward the Confederate capital of Virginia through Spotsylvania. The area over which Grant intended to advance was sparsely populated, inaccessible and densely wooded, and his troops' numerical superiority could only be used in the few open areas for a general action. Grant knew that his troops would have to move in separate columns, if only to concentrate for concerted action. General Lee moved to attack the Union troops as they moved into position, before the numerical advantage in open country would spell doom to Confederate hopes. The fighting was confused and bloody; but despite the losses of the Union army, which exceeded the losses of the Confederates greatly, Grant ground onward for he knew that he could afford the casualties better than his enemy. This book is part of the Special Campaigns series produced around the turn of the 20th century by serving or recently retired British and Indian Army officers. They were intended principally for use by British officers seeking a wider knowledge of military history. Captain Vaughan-Sawyer served in the Indian army for all his adult life before falling in the opening months of the First World War. His excellent book is evidence of a life cut short.
