Young Lions: Confederate Cadets at War

The Young Lions is a book that chronicles the experiences of young Confederate military cadets during the American Civil War, including their struggles to remain open, the death of Stonewall Jackson, and the burning of the University of Alabama.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 31 August 2019
Publisher: Stackpole Books

The Young Lions is a captivating tale that delves into the lives of young Confederate military cadets during the tumultuous period of the American Civil War. Spanning from the establishment of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) in 1839 to the challenges faced by all four major military colleges in the South, including The Citadel, Georgia Military Institute, and the University of Alabama, this book offers a profound insight into the daily struggles, triumphs, and sacrifices of these young men as they navigated the treacherous terrain of war.

The opening chapter of The Young Lions takes us back to the early days of VMI, where a group of determined young men, led by the visionary founder, General Thomas Jonathan Jackson, embarked on a mission to establish a military academy that would train future leaders of the Confederacy. Despite facing numerous obstacles, including financial constraints and political opposition, VMI persevered and opened its doors in 1839.

The cadets who enrolled at VMI were drawn from diverse backgrounds, but they all shared a common goal: to serve their country and protect the Confederate cause. They underwent rigorous training, both in the classroom and on the battlefield, and were molded into disciplined and skilled soldiers. The book vividly portrays the cadets' experiences during their time at VMI, including their academic pursuits, military drills, and social interactions.

One of the most significant events that occurred during the cadets' time at VMI was the death of Stonewall Jackson, a professor at the institution. Jackson was a legendary figure in the Confederate Army, known for his bravery and strategic brilliance on the battlefield. His death was a devastating blow to the cadets and the Confederate cause, and it left a lasting impact on the institution.

Despite the challenges they faced, the cadets at VMI remained committed to their mission. They continued to train and prepare for battle, and their dedication was rewarded when they played a crucial role in the Battle of New Market in 1864. This battle was a turning point in the war, and the cadets' bravery and skill on the battlefield were instrumental in the Confederate victory.

However, the war was not without its tragedies, and the cadets at VMI were not immune to its effects. The burning of the University of Alabama in 1865 was a haunting reminder of the destructive power of war. The cadets who had studied and trained at VMI were forced to flee the campus, leaving behind their belongings and memories.

The Young Lions is a powerful and evocative book that offers a glimpse into the lives of these young men and their contributions to the Confederate cause. It sheds light on the challenges they faced, the sacrifices they made, and the legacy they left behind. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the American Civil War, military history, or the human cost of war.

In conclusion, The Young Lions is a captivating tale that delves into the lives of young Confederate military cadets during the American Civil War. From the establishment of VMI in 1839 to the struggles of all the schools to remain open during the war, the death of Stonewall Jackson, and the burning of the University of Alabama in 1865, this book offers a profound insight into the daily struggles, triumphs, and sacrifices of these young men as they navigated the treacherous terrain of war. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the American Civil War, military history, or the human cost of war.

Weight: 322g
Dimension: 140 x 215 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780811738026