In many ways, Gettysburg was a campaign that changed the war. It pretty well put paid to any extensive advances into Union territory by the Confederate army. Brandy Station was one of the opening battles of this campaign and was one of the most bitterly fought of the war. It was also one of the largest cavalry engagements of the Civil War and was never to be surpassed in ferocity again in North America. It was also a battle where Union Cavalry finally was able to best the Confederate forces for the first time, giving impetus to the following battles and the war.

#207 in Osprey's Campaign series follows a well developed format, starting with events leading up to the battle, the plans of the opposing sides and a look at the various commanders on both Union and Confederate sides. This is then followed by a look at the opposing armies themselves and how each one used cavalry in battle. We then get into the meat of the book, the battle itself and the various stages of the engagement. How this event shaped the immediate and future course of events is discussed and we get a look at the battlefield today. Thanks to the continuing efforts of volunteers, the battlefield today is much as it was nearly 150 years ago.

All of this is additionally enhanced by a superb choice of period  artwork and some early photography. In addition, illustrator Adam Hook shares his magic with his work and that of some excellent maps and charts.

 It all makes for an excellent read and provides insight into the preamble of one of American history's turning points. As with all Osprey books, you won't be disappointed. 

January 2009

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