One of the great things about living in 2017 is our access
to a veritable treasure-trove of information via the internet. As an author,
the advantage in research that I have over my counterparts of previous
generations, simply can’t be overstated. Every day more and more historical
documents are put on-line for consumption.
In addition, technology and the access to it has enabled
anyone with time and a little know how to publish a blog, post or video. Technology
has enabled the posting of an infinite number of subjects by an infinite number
individuals. Some are a wonderful and
informative while others are fraught with misinformation and questionable
information. The freedom of the internet makes both possible.
This reoccurring post is dedicated to my evaluation of some
of the more interesting internet finds related The Battle of Antietam and the
1862 Maryland Campaign.
While rummaging around You Tube watching several lectures on
Antietam, I happened to stumble across an interesting video on the battle by a
man name of Joe Ryan. A personal injury
attorney from California.
On his Website he describes himself and his purpose this
way:
“The purpose of this
not-for-profit website is to provide students and teachers with an objective
analysis of issues regarding President Lincoln and Generals Grant and Lee in
the American Civil War. The analysis is based solely upon my examination of the
primary evidence presently available in the historical record. I also compare
the American experience of the past with the present. I provide videos, based
on intelligent comments or questions.”
The most prominent thread that runs through his videos, of
which there are dozens of, is that most of what historians tell us about key
aspects of the Civil War are wrong. Including a number of aspects on Antietam. In
addition, he tells the viewer that his perspective is more accurate because he
looks at these same events through the eyes of an attorney.
Naturally, as an amateur historian myself I was intrigued,
as I am constantly scouring the internet for new information and perspectives
on the Maryland Campaign.
Several things become apparent when you watch Mr. Ryan’s videos.
- He does not think very much of the usual cadre of civil war authors and lecturers that one who is a student of the war will be familiar with.
- He is obviously a very well read and has a very in-depth knowledge of the war.
- He loves to make videos.
He has some very interesting theories about the war and
while I disagree with a large portion of his theories, they are entertaining in
their own unique way. Rather than jading
you with my opinion, I will leave you to check them out and come to you own conclusion.
Let me know what you think.
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