Greatest Escape: A True American Civil War Adventure

During the Civil War, 109 Yankee officers imprisoned in Libby, a special prison in Richmond, Virginia, plotted the largest prison break in US history. They escaped through a tunnel and were pursued by whites, but every black person they encountered helped them. Over 50 of the escapees kept journals and published accounts of their adventures, which are woven together in the book to create a true-to-life narrative.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 320 pages
\n Publication date: 15 June 2021
\n Publisher: Stackpole Books
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The Greatest Escape: A True American Adventure unfolds the captivating tale of the largest prison breakout in the history of the United States. This remarkable escapade unfolded during the turbulent era of the Civil War, when over 100 Yankee officers found themselves confined in Libby, a highly secure prison regarded as virtually escape-proof, situated in the Confederate capital of Richmond, Virginia. Driven by an insatiable desire for freedom, the majority of these men meticulously crafted an intricate escape plan, which unfolded on a moonless night when 109 brave souls courageously dug their way to liberty. Despite facing freezing temperatures, relentless hunger, and ragged clothing, they embarked on a treacherous journey of 40 miles, navigating through a landscape fraught with danger. However, their fortunes turned when they encountered fellow black individuals, who, despite the risks, offered them unwavering friendship and support. In a remarkable display of solidarity, slaves bravely risked their lives to aid these Union men, forming an unlikely alliance that propelled them forward. A female-led Union spy network also played a pivotal role in their journey, providing crucial information and assistance. Notably, all the escapees were officers, possessing the skill of reading and writing. Over 50 of them diligently maintained journals, which they used to document their thrilling adventures in vivid detail. This groundbreaking book is a pioneering effort, seamlessly weaving together these contemporary accounts into a compelling and authentic narrative. It evokes the essence of a Ken Burns documentary, employing the actual words spoken by the prisoners more than 150 years ago, as discovered in their diaries and journals. The Greatest Escape: A True American Adventure offers a captivating glimpse into the indomitable human spirit and the resilience of the human mind, reminding us of the power of courage, friendship, and solidarity in the face of adversity.

\n Weight: 606g\n
Dimension: 164 x 236 x 31 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781493051823\n \n