The book, awarded the Dan and Marilyn Laney Prize by the Austin Civil War Round Table in 2005, offers a detailed exploration of a significant aspect of the Civil War. It delves into the intricate dynamics of the era, examining key events, figures, and the lasting impact of the conflict on American society. Through meticulous research and engaging narrative, it sheds light on lesser-known stories and perspectives, enriching the reader's understanding of this pivotal period in history.
Galveston played a crucial role during the Civil War, serving as a vital lifeline for the Confederacy as other Southern ports succumbed to Union forces. Its strategic significance grew as it became one of the last major ports under Confederate control by the war's end in 1865. This history sheds light on the often-overlooked narratives of the conflict, highlighting Galveston's importance in the broader context of the Civil War and its impact on the region.
In the spring of 1880, Ulysses S. Grant, former general-in-chief and two-term president of the United States, stepped ashore at Galveston and began what turned out to be a seven-day whirlwind visit to Texas. This book tells the story of Grant's busy week in Texas, allowing the reader to see Texas the way Grant experienced it.