Confederate Admiral: The Life and Wars of Franklin Buchanan

"Confederate Admiral: The Life and Wars of Franklin Buchanan" is a definitive examination of a pivotal figure in American naval history, penned by renowned Civil War and naval historian Craig L. Symonds. This biography delves into the complex life of Franklin Buchanan, from his distinguished service in the antebellum U.S. Navy, including his groundbreaking role as the first superintendent of the Naval Academy and his pioneering voyages in Asian waters, to his dramatic decision to resign his commission at the outbreak of the Civil War. Symonds expertly navigates Buchanan's contentious loyalties and his subsequent rise to become the Confederacy's sole full admiral, highlighting his crucial command of the CSS Virginia (Merrimack) at Hampton Roads and his leadership of the CSS Tennessee during the iconic Battle of Mobile Bay. Craig L. Symonds' "Confederate Admiral" is an exemplary addition to his esteemed body of work due to its meticulous research, compelling narrative, and insightful analysis of both military and societal dynamics. Symonds consistently demonstrates an ability to bring complex historical figures and events to life, and this biography is no exception. He masterfully contextualizes Buchanan's career against the backdrop of the profound technological and political shifts within the U.S. Navy during the antebellum period, while simultaneously illuminating the deep-seated issues of loyalty, slavery, and professionalism that defined America's most traumatic national crisis. The book not only chronicles Buchanan's remarkable naval achievements but also provides a nuanced exploration of his character, making it an essential read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Civil War and the evolution of American naval power.