I knew very little about the War of 1812 before reading this book. I had heard about the Battle of New Orleans being a pivotal battle, but hadn’t done any research. I picked up this book in anticipation of seeing some of the battle sites during my inaugural trip to NOLA this spring, a trip that has since been canceled.

I’m not sure what to make of this book. It was very thorough and, when I set myself to it, a quick read. In all, there was really only one major action in the Battle, so a lot of the information was about the time and place in history, along with troop movements and the dreadful conditions that the forces on both sides endured.

Of course, at the center of the Battle of New Orleans is Andrew Jackson, on of the many controversial figures in America’s history. Winston Groom takes a very even approach to Jackson. He clearly demonstrates that without Jackson, there would be no United States. At the same time, he’s forthright in articulating Jackson’s moral deficiencies.

This is an excellent book for students of American history as well as people interested in military history. I would not say it’s of general interest, though I did enjoy it.

Would I recommend: YES

ISBN: 978-1400044368