The Epic Tale of Western History: A Review of 'Son of the Morning Star' by Evan S. Connell

Son of the Morning Star is a remarkable book that delves into the life of one of the most iconic figures in American history - George Armstrong Custer. Written by Evan S. Connell, this book offers an in-depth look at the life and times of the legendary soldier who died at the Battle of Little Bighorn. From his early days at West Point to his final moments on the battlefield, this book takes readers on a fascinating journey through the life of one of America's most controversial military leaders.

Connell's writing style is impeccable, and he manages to capture the essence of Custer's personality in a way that few other biographers have been able to do. He paints a vivid picture of the man behind the myth, and his attention to detail is second to none. Whether you are a history buff, a military enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys a good story, this book is sure to captivate you from start to finish.

One of the things that makes Son of the Morning Star such a compelling read is the way that Connell presents his material. Rather than simply recounting the facts, he weaves a narrative that draws readers in and keeps them engaged throughout. He brings the events of Custer's life to life in a way that is both informative and entertaining, and his writing is both engaging and thought-provoking.

Another aspect of the book that is sure to appeal to readers is the way that Connell approaches his subject matter. Rather than taking a partisan or biased approach, he presents a balanced view of Custer's life, acknowledging both his strengths and weaknesses. This allows readers to form their own opinions about the man and his legacy, rather than being spoon-fed a particular viewpoint.

Throughout the book, Connell uses a variety of storytelling techniques to keep readers engaged. He employs flashbacks, anecdotes, and even fictionalized accounts to bring Custer's story to life. This helps to break up the narrative and keeps readers from becoming bogged down in dry historical facts.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Son of the Morning Star is the way that Connell explores the cultural context of Custer's life and times. He delves into the complex relationships between Native Americans and white settlers, and examines the ways in which these tensions played out on the battlefield. This provides readers with a deeper understanding of the events that led up to the Battle of Little Bighorn, and helps to shed light on the larger historical context in which these events took place.

Connell's portrayal of Custer is both nuanced and sympathetic. He recognizes the man's bravery and military skill, but also acknowledges his flaws and shortcomings. This makes for a much more interesting and complex character than the one-dimensional caricature that often appears in popular culture.

The book is also notable for its extensive research. Connell spent years poring over historical records and visiting the sites of Custer's battles, and this attention to detail shows in the finished product. The book is meticulously researched and footnoted, making it an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the history of the American West.

Throughout the book, Connell uses a variety of transitions to move seamlessly between different topics and ideas. He employs phrases like meanwhile, as a result, and in addition to signal shifts in focus, and this helps to keep the narrative flowing smoothly.

In conclusion, Son of the Morning Star is a masterful work of historical biography that offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of one of America's most controversial military figures. Connell's writing is engaging and informative, and he presents a balanced, nuanced view of Custer's life and legacy. Whether you are a history buff, a military enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys a good story, this book is sure to captivate you from start to finish.

Introduction

Son of the Morning Star is a book written by Evan S. Connell, first published in 1984. The book tells the story of George Armstrong Custer, a United States Army officer and cavalry commander who fought in the American Civil War and later in the Indian Wars. It is a comprehensive biography that explores the life and career of one of America's most controversial military leaders. The book covers Custer's personal life, his military campaigns, and his death at the Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876.

Custer's Early Life

George Armstrong Custer was born in 1839 in Ohio, the son of a farmer. He graduated from West Point in 1861 and joined the Union Army during the Civil War. Custer quickly rose through the ranks due to his bravery and leadership skills, and he became known as a daring cavalry commander.

Civil War Service

During the Civil War, Custer served with distinction in many battles, including the First Battle of Bull Run, the Battle of Gettysburg, and the Battle of Appomattox Court House. He was promoted to the rank of major general at the age of 23, making him one of the youngest general officers in the history of the U.S. Army.

Indian Wars

After the Civil War, Custer was sent to the West to fight against Native American tribes who were resisting the encroachment of white settlers on their lands. He led several campaigns against the Sioux, Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes in the 1860s and 1870s.

The Battle of the Little Bighorn

Custer's most famous battle was the Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876. Custer and his troops were defeated by a force of Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho warriors led by Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse. Custer and his entire command were killed in the battle, which has become known as Custer's Last Stand.

Criticism of Custer

Despite his military accomplishments, Custer has been criticized for his treatment of Native Americans and his role in the Indian Wars. Many historians believe that he was responsible for the deaths of innocent civilians and that he used brutal tactics against Native American tribes.

Portrayals in Popular Culture

Custer has been portrayed in many movies, books, and TV shows over the years. Some portray him as a hero and a symbol of American bravery, while others depict him as a villain and a symbol of American aggression towards Native Americans. The book Son of the Morning Star attempts to present a balanced view of Custer, showing both his flaws and his strengths.

Legacy of Custer

Custer's legacy is complex and controversial. He is remembered as a brave and daring military leader, but also as a symbol of American imperialism and mistreatment of Native Americans. His death at the Battle of the Little Bighorn has become a part of American folklore, and his name is still widely recognized today.

Monuments and Memorials

There are several monuments and memorials dedicated to Custer, including a statue in Monroe, Michigan, where he grew up, and a national monument at the site of the Battle of the Little Bighorn. These monuments have been the subject of controversy, with some arguing that they glorify a man who was responsible for atrocities against Native Americans.

Conclusion

Son of the Morning Star is a comprehensive biography of George Armstrong Custer that explores his life and career in detail. It presents a balanced view of Custer, showing both his strengths and his flaws. The book is an important contribution to the study of American history and the legacy of the Indian Wars.

Introduction to the Book: A Captivating Tale of the American Frontier

Son of the Morning Star is a captivating book that takes readers on a journey through the life of one of America's most controversial historical figures, George Armstrong Custer. Written by Evan S. Connell, this book goes beyond the typical biographical account of Custer's life and delves into the complex issues surrounding the American frontier in the late 1800s. The book is divided into three parts, each focusing on a different aspect of Custer's life. Part one explores his childhood and early military career, part two delves into his personal life and relationships, and part three provides a detailed account of the Battle of Little Bighorn and its aftermath. Through Connell's masterful storytelling, readers are transported to a time when the American West was still largely uncharted territory and the clash between Native Americans and white settlers was at its height. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in American history or the fascinating story of George Armstrong Custer.

The Life of George Armstrong Custer: A Compelling Biography

George Armstrong Custer was born in New Rumley, Ohio in 1839. He graduated from West Point in 1861 and joined the Union Army during the Civil War. Custer quickly rose through the ranks and became known for his bravery and tactical skills on the battlefield. After the war, Custer was sent to the western frontier to fight against the Sioux and Cheyenne tribes who were resisting white settlement. It was during this time that Custer gained both fame and infamy. He became known for his daring raids against the Native Americans but also for his reckless behavior and disregard for orders. Connell's biography of Custer provides a detailed look at the man behind the legend. He paints a picture of a complex individual who was both a hero and a villain, depending on who you ask. Connell explores Custer's personal relationships, including his marriage to Elizabeth Bacon, and delves into the many controversies surrounding his military career.

The Battle of Little Bighorn: A Detailed Account of the Tragedy

The Battle of Little Bighorn, also known as Custer's Last Stand, was a defining moment in American history. On June 25, 1876, Custer and his men were ambushed by a coalition of Native American tribes led by Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse. The battle was a complete disaster for Custer and his troops, with all 210 soldiers under his command killed in action. Connell provides readers with a detailed account of the battle, drawing from primary sources and eyewitness accounts. He explores the tactical mistakes made by Custer and his officers, as well as the bravery of the Native American warriors who fought against them. Connell's depiction of the battle is both harrowing and tragic, leaving readers with a sense of the immense loss of life on both sides.

The Native American Perspective: A Look into the Other Side of the Story

One of the most compelling aspects of Son of the Morning Star is its exploration of the Native American perspective. Throughout the book, Connell gives voice to the Native Americans who fought against white settlement in the West. He presents a nuanced view of the conflict, showing that it was not just a simple case of good versus evil. The Native Americans were fighting for their land and their way of life, and they saw the white settlers as invaders who were destroying everything they held dear. Connell's portrayal of the Native American perspective is a refreshing change from the one-sided accounts often found in traditional Western literature. It adds depth and complexity to the story and helps readers to better understand the motivations and actions of both sides.

Custer's Last Stand: An Analysis of the Controversial Event

The Battle of Little Bighorn and Custer's Last Stand remain controversial to this day. Many people view Custer as a hero who died fighting for his country, while others see him as a reckless and arrogant leader who brought about his own downfall. Connell's analysis of the event is nuanced and thought-provoking. He explores the many factors that led to Custer's defeat, including his own mistakes and the tactical prowess of his Native American opponents. Connell also delves into the aftermath of the battle, including the widespread outrage and mourning that swept the nation. He shows how Custer's death became a symbol of the sacrifices made by American soldiers in the fight against the Native Americans.

The Role of Women in the American West: A Highlight in the Book

One of the most interesting aspects of Son of the Morning Star is its exploration of the role of women in the American West. Connell devotes several chapters to the women who played important roles in Custer's life, including his wife Elizabeth and his sister Margaret. Connell shows how these women were often overlooked in traditional Western literature, which tended to focus on the exploits of male heroes. He highlights the ways in which these women were able to carve out their own niches in a male-dominated society, whether through their marriages, their work, or their activism. Connell's portrayal of these women adds depth and complexity to the story and helps to paint a more complete picture of life on the American frontier.

The Legacy of George Armstrong Custer: A Discussion of His Impact on American History

George Armstrong Custer may have only lived to the age of 36, but his impact on American history was profound. His death at Little Bighorn turned him into a national hero and a symbol of American bravery and sacrifice. But Custer's legacy is also complicated. He was a controversial figure, both in his own time and in the years since his death. Many people view him as a symbol of American imperialism and the mistreatment of Native Americans. Connell's book provides readers with a nuanced look at Custer's legacy, exploring both the positive and negative aspects of his life and career. He shows how Custer's story is a microcosm of the larger issues facing America in the late 1800s, including westward expansion, Native American resistance, and the changing role of women in society.

The Writing Style of the Author: A Review of Evan S. Connell's Work

Evan S. Connell's writing style is both engaging and informative. He has a gift for storytelling that brings historical events to life and makes them accessible to a wide audience. Connell's prose is clear and concise, but also evocative. He has a talent for describing scenes and characters in a way that makes readers feel as though they are right there in the moment. His research is meticulous, and he draws on a wide range of primary sources to provide readers with a complete picture of the events he is describing. Overall, Connell's writing style is one of the strengths of Son of the Morning Star. It is what makes the book such a compelling read and what sets it apart from other historical accounts of the American frontier.

The Significance of the Book in the Study of American Frontier History

Son of the Morning Star is a significant book in the study of American frontier history. It provides readers with a comprehensive and nuanced look at the life of George Armstrong Custer and the many complex issues surrounding the American West in the late 1800s. Connell's exploration of the Native American perspective is particularly important, as it challenges traditional Western narratives and helps to create a more balanced and inclusive view of American history. The book also highlights the role of women in the American West, an oft-overlooked aspect of frontier history. By highlighting the contributions of women like Elizabeth Custer and Margaret Custer, Connell helps to paint a more complete picture of life on the frontier.

Final Thoughts: A Recommendation for All History Enthusiasts

In conclusion, Son of the Morning Star is a must-read for anyone interested in American history or the story of George Armstrong Custer. It is a well-written and thoroughly researched book that provides readers with a comprehensive look at the American frontier in the late 1800s. Connell's exploration of the Native American perspective is particularly compelling and adds depth and complexity to the story. His writing style is engaging and informative, making the book accessible to a wide audience. Overall, I highly recommend Son of the Morning Star to anyone who wants to learn more about this fascinating period in American history.

Son of the Morning Star Book Review

Overview

Son of the Morning Star is a non-fiction book written by Evan S. Connell, discussing the life of General George Armstrong Custer and the events which lead to his death at the Battle of Little Bighorn.

Pros

The book provides an in-depth look into the life of General Custer, giving readers insight into his personality and decisions as a military leader.
Connell's writing style is engaging, making the book an enjoyable read for history enthusiasts and casual readers alike.
The author presents both sides of the story, including the perspectives of Native Americans and white settlers, allowing readers to form their own opinions on the historical events.

Cons

The book is heavily focused on General Custer, neglecting other important figures and events leading up to the Battle of Little Bighorn.
Connell's writing style can be overly flowery and descriptive, making it difficult for some readers to follow along.
The book may be biased towards General Custer, portraying him as a tragic hero rather than acknowledging any questionable decisions he made during his military career.

Comparison Table

Criteria	Son of the Morning Star	Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee
Focus	General Custer and the events leading up to the Battle of Little Bighorn	The history of Native American tribes and their interactions with white settlers
Perspective	Includes both Native American and white settler perspectives, but primarily focuses on General Custer	Presents the history of Native American tribes from their own perspective
Writing Style	Engaging, but can be overly flowery and descriptive at times	Straightforward and informative
Subjectivity	May be biased towards General Custer, portraying him as a tragic hero	Attempts to remain objective, presenting historical events without bias

In conclusion, Son of the Morning Star is an engaging book which provides insight into the life of General Custer and the events leading up to his death. While it may be biased towards Custer and neglect other important figures and events, it remains an interesting read for history enthusiasts. When compared to other books on Native American history, such as Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee, it becomes clear that each book has its strengths and weaknesses in terms of perspective, writing style and subjectivity.

Final Thoughts on Son of the Morning Star

If you're a history buff, or just someone interested in learning about the events that shaped America's West, then Son of the Morning Star is a must-read book. This sweeping narrative covers the life and times of General George Armstrong Custer, one of the most legendary figures of the American West. But it doesn't stop there - author Evan S. Connell takes readers on a journey through the entire period, from the early days of westward expansion to the tragic Battle of Little Bighorn.

The book is a masterpiece of storytelling, weaving together historical facts with vivid descriptions of the landscape, the people, and the events that shaped this tumultuous era. Connell's writing is engaging and accessible, bringing to life the characters and events in a way that makes them feel real and immediate. If you've ever wanted to feel like you're right there on the battlefield, or in the camp of Sitting Bull, then this book is for you.

One of the most striking things about Son of the Morning Star is its even-handed approach to history. Connell doesn't shy away from the controversies and complexities of the time, but presents them in a way that allows readers to make up their own minds. He acknowledges the role of both Native Americans and whites in shaping the West, and doesn't sugarcoat the violence and brutality that characterized much of the period.

Another standout feature of the book is its focus on the personalities involved in the events it describes. From Custer himself to his wife Libbie, from Crazy Horse to Sitting Bull, Connell brings these larger-than-life figures to life. He explores their motivations, their passions, and their flaws, giving readers a glimpse into the human side of history.

But perhaps the most important message of Son of the Morning Star is the need for understanding and empathy between different cultures. Throughout the book, Connell shows how misunderstandings and mistrust between Native Americans and whites led to tragedy and bloodshed. He also highlights the ways in which individuals on both sides tried to bridge the divide, and argues that it is only through mutual respect and understanding that true healing can take place.

Whether you're a seasoned history buff or just looking for a good read, Son of the Morning Star is a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page. Its vivid characters, sweeping narrative, and nuanced approach to history make it a classic of the genre, and a must-read for anyone interested in the American West.

So why not pick up a copy today? Whether you're reading it for the first time or revisiting an old favorite, you're sure to find something new and thought-provoking in its pages.

Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts on this incredible book. I hope that you've found them helpful, and that you'll consider checking out Son of the Morning Star for yourself. And as always, happy reading!