Plenty of Blame to Go Around: Jeb Stuart's Controversial Ride to Gettysburg : Book Review

"Plenty of Blame to Go Around" by Eric J. Wittenberg is an impeccably researched and captivating account of the Battle of Gettysburg. The author's intention is to shed light on the controversial actions and decisions of Confederate General Robert E. Lee and Major General Jeb Stuart, particularly during the crucial battle. Wittenberg succeeds in his objective by providing a comprehensive and balanced narrative from both the Confederate and Union perspectives.

The book skillfully sets the stage for the battle, delving into the roles of Lee and Stuart in the Confederate army. Wittenberg thoroughly examines Stuart's contentious decision to embark on a raid instead of providing vital intelligence to Lee, offering insightful analysis and drawing from a multitude of primary sources. The author skillfully avoids overly condemning or exonerating Stuart and Lee, presenting a fair and nuanced account of their actions.

One of the book's notable strengths is Wittenberg's ability to vividly depict the chaos and confusion that plagued both sides during the battle. The reader gains a deep understanding of the challenges faced by commanders and soldiers alike. With meticulous attention to detail, Wittenberg brilliantly recreates the events of the battle, ensuring a captivating reading experience.

Moreover, the book highlights the impact of Stuart's absence on the Confederate army's performance. Wittenberg persuasively argues that the lack of crucial reconnaissance information hindered the Confederates' ability to effectively execute their strategies. Through extensive research and analysis, the author makes a compelling case to support his claims.

In conclusion, Eric J. Wittenberg's "Plenty of Blame to Go Around" is highly recommended for both Civil War enthusiasts and those interested in the Battle of Gettysburg. With its thorough research, balanced perspective, and engaging narrative, the book provides valuable insights into the complexities of key commanders and their decision-making processes during this pivotal moment in American history.

What are readers saying?

The book "Plenty of Blame to Go Around" by Eric J. Wittenberg has received a range of reviews from readers. Centered on the Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War, the book delves into the controversial actions of General J.E.B. Stuart. Here is a summary of the feedback:

1. Many readers applaud the book's meticulous research and detailed analysis. They admire Wittenberg's ability to offer a comprehensive account of the events surrounding the battle. The author's use of primary sources and extensive knowledge of the subject matter are highly acclaimed. These readers find the book to be an invaluable resource for both Civil War enthusiasts and historians, appreciating its depth and breadth.

2. Some reviewers express disappointment in the book's writing style, noting its dryness and difficulty to follow. While they acknowledge the extensive research, they feel the narrative could have been more engaging and better organized. These readers suggest the book may be more suitable for individuals already well-versed in Civil War history.

3. Several readers criticize the author's negative portrayal of General Stuart. They argue that Wittenberg assigns excessive blame to Stuart for the Confederate loss at Gettysburg. These reviewers believe the author fails to consider the broader context of the battle and overlooks other contributing factors to the defeat.

4. However, other readers appreciate Wittenberg's perspective on Stuart and find his arguments compelling. They agree that Stuart's absence from the main battlefield significantly impacted the battle's outcome. These reviewers praise the balanced view presented by Wittenberg, supported by solid evidence and well-reasoned analysis.

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