Destruction and Reconstruction: Personal Experiences of the Late War

"Destruction and Reconstruction" by Richard Taylor is a journey through the chaos of the American Civil War and its aftermath, as told by a Confederate Lieutenant-General. Taylor shares his own story, offering a firsthand look at the war's biggest moments, his role in them, and the struggles of the South during Reconstruction. He sets the stage by explaining why he felt the need to document these experiences, shining a light on the political and social tensions that defined the time. Taylor introduces the key players and events that shaped the conflict and hints at the difficult lessons learned on the battlefield.