SHILOH: -In Hell before Night by James Lee McDonough. NEW First Edition unstated, 7th printing paperback, 2003. Fought in the early spring of 1862 on the west bank of the Mississippi state line, Shiloh, which bears the biblical name meaning place of peace, was at that time, the biggest battle of American history and one of the bloodiest encounters of the Civil War. Colorful, dramatic, blundering, and tragic all apply to the 2-day engagement. The Union colonel foretold the losses when he told his men: “Fill your canteens, Boys. Some of you will be in hell before night.” 100,000 men were involved, and major Civil War commanders such as Grant, Sherman, Johnston, Beauregard, Bragg, and Forrest participated. The battle played a significant role in the campaign for control of the Mississippi Valley. The story of Shiloh is told here by placing Shiloh in the larger context of the war and by exploring the very personal side of the conflict through the words of the Union and Confederate participants, officers and common soldiers alike. Touches of humor and even or romance are revealed in the midst of the carnage, but the overriding element is the specter of death. Among those who survived, the soldiers who had been eager to see the elephant, as they commonly referred to combat, would never again feel so eager for a fight. NEW First Edition unstated, 7th printing paperback, unread with acid-free pages and edges clean and unmarked. Binding tight with spine not creased. Cover shows no corner or edge wear with slight curl on front forward edge. No tears with very minor scuffing and rubbing. Not a remainder. Excellent condition. 6" x 9." Vintage photos, maps, appendices, and text. 260 pgs.