About this item
Highlights
- Just as Confederate naval action is commonly overshadowed by the land battles of the Civil War, the navy's originator, Stephen Mallory, is often overlooked in favor of more famous leaders.
- About the Author: The late Rodman L. Underwood was an author and lecturer.
- 256 Pages
- Biography + Autobiography, Historical
Description
About the Book
Just as Confederate naval action is commonly overshadowed by the dramatic land battles of the Civil War, the navy's originator, Stephen Mallory, is often passed over in favor of those who played a more publicized role in the government of the Confederacy. Mallory had served as one of Florida's U.S. senators for ten years when the state's secession forced him to resign his position. In the new Confederate government he became the naval secretary and found himself challenged to create a valid military force where none had existed.Book Synopsis
Just as Confederate naval action is commonly overshadowed by the land battles of the Civil War, the navy's originator, Stephen Mallory, is often overlooked in favor of more famous leaders. Mallory had served as one of Florida's U.S. senators for ten years before becoming navy secretary in the Confederate government, challenged to create a valid military force where none had existed.
This biography chronicles Mallory's formative years in Key West, his decades of public service, and his declining days. It discusses his career in the United States Senate, where he chaired the Committee for Naval Affairs, helping to strengthen--in an ironic twist of fate--the very navy he would later attempt to defeat. The work also examines the challenges and obstacles Mallory faced in creating a navy for the South. Special attention is given to Mallory's family relationships. Primary sources include autobiographical documents and archival records.
Review Quotes
"excellent...very well written...highly recommended"-Civil War News; "worthy"-The Civil War Courier; "this, the first biography of Mallory in over 50 years, is a highly detailed, comprehensive look at the man's life and work"-The NYMAS Review.
About the Author
The late Rodman L. Underwood was an author and lecturer. He lived in Port Orange, Florida.
