Herein, for the first time, is revealed the impact and scope of the basic repeating rifle in the Civil War. Well documented, and supported by exciting on-the-spot reports, the author presents convincing evidence that the Spencer seven-shooter was a major factor--possibly the major factor in winding up the war which cost far more American lives than World War II. Christopher Spencer, the inventor and manufacturer, personally demonstrated the arm to President Lincoln on the White House lawn. Lincoln himself did considerable shooting with it. Withal, this is compact, hard-hitting, easy-to-read history of the five main Union campaigns of 1864 and 1865, well-seasoned with the incidents of soldier life which lend a quaint flavor to a fascinating phase of American history.
