num_pages: 369
description: In a sympathetic eulogy, Ambrose Bierce, the famous journalist, awarded William Babcock Hazen, his Civil War superior, comrade in arms, and friend, the title of 'the best hated man.' Edward S. Cooper has written the first complete biography of Hazen and examines in detail why Bierce was correct. In Coopers view, Hazen's life debunks the myth of men who fought side by side bonding together into brotherhood. Cooper also traces the running feuds Hazen later had with two secretaries of war. He caused both to be publicly disgraced. Even General Sherman, after years of friendship, turned against Hazen. The book traces the origins of these feuds and how they played out in magazines, newspapers, congressional hearings, and trials, and how Hazen emerged triumphant.There are enormous gaps in the few published works about William Babcock Hazen. Most intriguing is Cooper's discovery and use of the unpublished fragments of a memoir by his wife.Hazen had character flaws, and Cooper brings them to light, but he also had traits that, particularly today, should be emulated. Unfortunately, Hazen's life has faded from history. Cooper's work corrects that error.
language: English
title: William Babcock Hazen: The Best Hated Man
titlecomplete: William Babcock Hazen: The Best Hated Man
ratings_count: 1
publisher: UNKNO