James Fowler Rusling (1834-1918) served for much of the Civil War as a staff officer in the Army of the Potomac. He ended his service as a brevet brigadier general. In this capacity, he had the opportunity to work alongside many senior commanders. He shared his observations in his 1889 book, "Men and Things I Saw in Civil War Days." Here's his take on Lt. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant, the western soldier who stood in stark contrast to his counterparts in the east.

"Life on the Civil War Research Trail" is hosted by Ronald S. Coddington, Editor and Publisher of Military Images magazine. Learn more about our mission to showcase, interpret and preserve Civil War portrait photography at militaryimagesmagazine.com and shopmilitaryimages.com.

This episode is brought to you in part by The Excelsior Brigade, dealers in fine Civil War memorabilia. See their latest additions at excelsiorbrigade.com.

Image: National Portrait Gallery

This channel is a member of the YouTube Partner Program. Your interest, support, and engagement is key, and I'm grateful for it. Thank you!