Giant of the West: The Autobiography of General George Crook (Annotated)

4.4/5 ( ratings)

"No student of the Civil War or of the West can afford to ignore it."-New York Times Book Review

"A story straightforward, readable, accurate, and interesting, packed with detail and saturated with a strong western flavor.... The importance of this book lies not merely in its considerable contribution to our knowledge of military history and to the intimate and sometimes trenchant remarks made by Crook about his colleagues, but more particularly in the revelation of the character and aims of the general himself."-Chicago Tribune

One of the most important books in American military history, the autobiography of General George Crook is the account of his participation in the Civil War and Indian Wars. A fierce fighter, highly respected commander, and intelligent leader of men, Crook attempted to deal fairly with Native Americans despite duplicitous policy coming out of Washington.

The autobiography covers Crook's time in the army before, during, and after the Civil War. It ends abruptly at the conclusion of the Battle of the Rosebud, just eight days before Custer's disaster at the Little Bighorn. Though Crook was never able to finish it, you'll read his accounts of some of the most important events of his day.

After laying on a shelf for fifty years, Crook's great work on his military career was discovered and edited by Martin Schmitt. Not even Crook's friend and biographer, John Bourke, knew of its existence.

For the first time, this important and fascinating work is available for e-readers, tablets, and smartphones. Read about Crook's dealings with Geronimo, Cochise, Crazy Horse, Red Cloud, and other famous chiefs. See how he didn't pull any punches when writing about Civil War greats like Sheridan, Thomas, Pope, Miles, and others.

Be sure to LOOK INSIDE by clicking the cover above or download a sample.

REVIEWS"When Red Cloud, the Sioux chief, heard of the death of his old antagonist, the Army officer the called Three Stars, he told a missionary, '...He, at least, never lied to us.' ...General Sherman called Crook the greatest Indian fighter and manager the Army ever had. Yet this man who was the most effective campaigner against the Indians had won their respect and trust. To understand why, you ought to read General George Crook: His Autobiography, edited by Martin F. Schmitt."-Los Angeles Times

"The frank analysis of situations and blunt, occasionally caustic, judgments of men and situations make interesting reading. Students of this period will find much material in this objective and lively book."-Cavalry Journal

"A valuable book for the serious student of history...it also should prove stimulating to the casual reader who has a liking for adventure."-Western Folklore