Southeastern historian writes of Grant's leadership qualities
Contact: Rene Abadie
Date: January 31, 2013
HAMMOND – Southeastern Louisiana University military historian Harry S. Laver
has authored a newly released work on the leadership skills and qualities of Civil
War General Ulysses S. Grant.
"The Leadership of Ulysses S. Grant: A General Who Will Fight" provides a detailed
study of leadership based on Grant's rise from an undisciplined cadet to commanding
general of the U.S. Army.
A professor of history and political science, Laver said Grant displayed his
uncommon drive early in the Civil War in the battles of Shiloh and Vicksburg.
"He later demonstrated his integrity, determination and tactical skill by taking
control of the Union troops and leading his forces to victory," said Laver, a specialist
in U.S. military history and the American Civil War.
He notes that many attribute Grant's success to superior technology and manpower
and even a ruthless willingness to sacrifice his own men. Laver disputes that argument,
however.
"The only viable explanation for Grant's success," he said, "lies in his leadership
skill, professional competence and unshakable resolve."
Virginia Tech Civil War expert William C. Davis said Laver's book shows Grant
as a subtle and sophisticated leader, unlike his portrayal as a "crude and clumsy
butcher" in other historical works.
"The Leadership of Ulysses S. Grant: A General Who Will Fight" was published
by the University Press of Kentucky and is available at Amazon.com and other booksellers.
Laver has also written the book "Citizens More than Soldiers: The Kentucky Militia
and Society in the Early Republic" and co-edited with Jeffrey J. Matthews "The Art
of Command: Military Leadership from George Washington to Colin Powell."
