In this mind-blowing, utterly captivating audiobook biography, the brilliant historian Benson Bobrick unveils the untold story of George H. Thomas, a man he believes to be the greatest and most triumphant general of the Civil War. Prepare to embark on a journey of historical enlightenment as Bobrick sheds light on the remarkable life of Thomas, a man whose legacy has been overshadowed by the memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant and William Tecumseh Sherman, both of whom Bobrick claims downplayed Thomas's accomplishments in their own writings.
Thomas, a Virginia native, not only survived the harrowing Nat Turner's rebellion as a young boy but also went on to study at West Point, where he crossed paths with Sherman. Through Bobrick's meticulous research, we learn of Thomas's exemplary performance in the Mexican War and his subsequent return to West Point, this time as an esteemed instructor. When the Civil War erupted, Thomas demonstrated unwavering loyalty to the Union, a stark contrast to his fellow Virginian, Robert E. Lee, and many others. It was on the battlefields of Mill Springs, Perryville, and Stones River that Thomas showcased his extraordinary skills as an officer, compiling an outstanding record of achievements.
However, it was during the Battle of Chickamauga where Thomas truly cemented his place in history. As a corps commander, he valiantly withstood a relentless Confederate assault while rallying his troops on Horseshoe Ridge, preventing a catastrophic defeat for the Union army. His awe-inspiring performance earned him the legendary moniker, 'The Rock of Chickamauga.' Promoted to lead the Army of the Cumberland, Thomas masterminded a resounding Union victory at the Battle of Chattanooga. His unwavering support of Sherman during the march through Georgia led to a crucial triumph at the Battle of Peachtree Creek. Even when Sherman ventured onward in his destructive March to the Sea, Thomas returned to Tennessee, where he annihilated Confederate General John Bell Hood's army in the monumental Battle of Nashville. Remarkably, Thomas achieved this momentous victory despite Grant initially intending to relieve him of his command. Grant swiftly changed his mind upon realizing the magnitude of Thomas's triumph. Tragically, Thomas's illustrious career was cut short by a fatal stroke in 1870, yet throughout the entire Civil War, he never once faced defeat.
Thomas's approach to warfare was characterized by methodical precision, unyielding preparedness, and an unwavering calmness unparalleled by his contemporaries. Where Grant showed vulnerability at Shiloh and Sherman exhibited moments of panic on the battlefield, Thomas remained composed and laser-focused. Even though he was mockingly dubbed 'Slow Trot Thomas' by Grant and Sherman, Bobrick's ground-breaking research reveals that Thomas possessed an unmatched ability to analyze every situation and make the right decisions at the right time. Although he may not have possessed the flamboyance of Grant or Sherman, Thomas commanded widespread respect from his peers. General James H. Wilson, Grant's beloved cavalry commander, even believed Thomas to be on par with any general from either army. Astonishingly, Thomas stands as the sole Union commander to decimate two Confederate armies in open combat.
While historians of the Civil War have long admired Thomas, it is his absence in the public imagination that has left his legacy subdued. However, with Bobrick's unrivaled expertise and unparalleled storytelling, Thomas finally receives the recognition he so rightly deserves. Prepare to be captivated, enthralled, and enlightened as you delve into this impeccably researched, thoughtfully balanced, and exceptionally written biography. Get ready to meet the extraordinary George H. Thomas, a man who defied the odds, shaped history, and emerged as one of the true titans of the Civil War.