Lincoln's Tragic Admiral—The Life Of Samuel Francis Du Pont

Du Pont began in the Navy at age 11 and served 50 years, during which time he was exposed to, and supported such new ideas as ironclad ships. He advanced in rank until he was chosen by Lincoln to take Charleston by sea in 1863. Du Pont was not entirely convinced this was a job for advanced technology, preferring a more subtle approach. Finally conceding to political pressure, he sent out the new ironclads to a disastrous defeat and was summarily dismissed. Weddle (Deputy Dean of Academics, United States Army War College) explores Du Pont's contexts and his influences, concluding in part that his reservations were based on practicality and experience rather than on antiquated ideas or want of valor. Annotation c2005 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Kevin J. Weddle is Professor and Director for the Advanced Strategic Art Program, Department of Military Strategy, Planning, and Operations, at the United States Army War College.