George Thomas ─ Virginian for the Union

It would not have been remarkable if Thomas had resigned his commission with the US Army at the opening the Civil War and joined the Confederacy, but he was remarkable for remaining with the Union and fighting valiantly at Chickamauga and Nashville. Even more remarkable was his transition from slave holder to strong supporter of civil rights. Einolf (U. of Richmond) has written an accessible and objective biography that allows Thomas to speak through his own documents. Einolf also provides plenty of context and allows readers to come to their own conclusions about why Thomas rebelled against his Southern heritage and fight his relations and friends. He traces Thomas's career from Virginia across the US several times to West Point to the decision that made him a Yankee. He also traces the ramifications of Thomas's decisions and the remarkably short shrift he has received from other historians. Includes very good photos and illustrations. Annotation c2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)