Extraordinary Circumstances: The Seven Days Battles

Extraordinary Circumstances: The Seven Days Battles is a detailed history of the American Civil War's first campaign in Virginia in 1862. Led by Robert E. Lee, the Army of Northern Virginia fought southeast of Richmond in the summer of 1862 against George B. McClellan's Army of the Potomac. Confederate officers including "Stonewall" Jackson, James Longstreet, A. P. Hill, and D. H. Hill pushed McClellan's forces from Richmond's gates to the James River, where Union troops found safety. During the campaign, Lee missed several opportunities to inflict greater damage on McClellan. While the Seven Days have been covered in numerous historical works, Brian K. Burton's account offers a thoroughly researched retelling that examines both commanding officers and common soldiers. The campaign lifted Southern morale, established Lee's growing reputation, and nearly secured European recognition of the Confederacy. Burton's narrative alternates between generals' testimonies and strategic plans with accounts from foot soldiers experiencing the battle firsthand.