It borders on
travesty that General Morgan is a virtual unknown in
American society and certainly unknown among anyone
lacking basic knowledge of American history. Higginbotham
accurately portrays Morgan as a man among men; a portrait
of the rugged individualism that characterized so many of
our founding generation.
Morgan, perhaps as much as Washington himself, I believe,
had as much to do with winning the war for independence as
any single individual. Many might disagree with that
statement, but consider the outcome if Cornwallis'
southern campaign had been successful. Consider the
consequences if the southern revolutionary army had been
annihilated. It is more than likely that there would have
been a different outcome at Yorktown had it not been for
the commanding leadership and battle tactics of the
"Old Wagoner". It can certainly be argued that
Morgan's actions at Cowpens, where he soundly gave
Tarleton's light infantry a `Devil of a Whoopin', turned
the tide in the south. And though he missed action at
Guilford Courthouse due to illness, his same battle
tactics were employed with success.
This is not one of the best books you will ever read, but
considering the lack of choices on Morgan, this is a must
read for knowledge on the General's life and
accomplishments. Perhaps in the near future, one of
today's acclaimed historians will render an updated
version, but until then, put Higginbotham's book on your
reading list. The book is brief, but concise, and will
lend a candid look at a somewhat forgotten, and often
overlooked American hero.
Monty Rainey
www.juntosociety.com
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