Civil War in Texas and New Mexico Territory
There are many stories from the Civil War; some of the ones that took place in the West have been overlooked. Texas and New Mexico Territory (present-day New Mexico and Arizona) were the scene of fierce fights and courageous actions on both sides. This book presents stories of those skirmishes, strategies, and soldiers. Even though some Texans--such as the famous Sam Houston--opposed secession, Texas joined the Confederacy on March 2, 1861, and put tens of thousands of men into battle to support the South. Even as they fought off Federal forces, the Western soldiers had to defend their homes from Mexican bandits and Native American attacks. It was a savage but proud period in the history of the West, and one that makes for fascinating reading. Steve Cottrell is descended from a Sixth Kansas Cavalry member who served in the Indian Territory during the Civil War. He currently resides in Carthage, Missouri. He has participated in battle reenactments, including one for the Academy Award-winning motion picture Glory, which he writes about in the appendix to this book. Cottrell also wrote Civil War in the Indian Territory and coauthored Civil War in the Ozarks, both published by Pelican. Andy Thomas's powerful illustrations also appeared in Civil War in the Indian Territory. Thomas is a professional artist who also resides in Carthage. His artwork has gained acclaim nationwide.