Vicksburg 1863

I read the book, Vicksburg 1863 by Winston Groom, to acquire a better understanding of the Civil War. The author Winston Groom brings the Civil War to life in this book and I found myself caught away in reading of this great historical event. The book covers the War in great detail. You will read of the battles and leaders of the Civil War, Ulysses S. Grant’s drinking problem, diary entries from citizens and soldiers, etc. You’ll also read of the hardships of life in Vicksburg. Before the war Vicksburg had forty-five hundred residents and there were about thirty-thousand soldiers added to the population during the war. Cave shelters were built and furnished with items from homes. Water and food were scarce and people were starving. After nearly seven weeks in the heat of the battle, Vicksburg surrendered on July 4th. As the tattered Rebels marched out with their white flags and laid down their arms, it was as if a funeral were taking place. Union soldiers stood by and watched quietly. The grieving citizens of Vicksburg were relieved that the fighting had ended.