If Lincoln had known before he had appointed McClellan what a piece of work he was, do you think he would have had him in such an important position? The evening when McClellan chooses to go to bed instead of meeting with the president and Lincoln says that he "will hold McClellan's horse if he will only bring us success," I think he sent that message quite clearly! McClellan used his arrogance to disguise his fear of losing battles! He missed so many opportunities to win battles that it was shameful.
I really liked reading about Lincoln reading military books on battle strategies! Exactly! How are you going to know if the people you've put in charge are really doing a good job? Cram the books!! Ask questions! Then he put his own political knowledge together with military knowledge, and was probably better able to direct, correct or confer with his military leaders. Lincoln was a very wise man that waited patiently for his day.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I found that interesting too. Lincoln had more patience than I think I would of, but he also new the men liked him and respected him. Was that possibly because they new he wouldn't risk fighting unless it was a sure victory?
ReplyDeleteI've wondered that too, but who else he could have turned to at that point in the war. None of the other generals had distinguished themselves enough to instill any confidence in Lincoln. I think that Lincoln choose McClellan, hoping for the best, but all the while, searching for a better alternative.
ReplyDelete