CIVIL WAR AND REVOLUTION ON THE RIO GRANDE FRONTIER: A NARRATIVE AND PHOTOGRAPHIC HISTORY.

Austin: Texas State Historical Association, 2004. 174pp. Index. Bibliography. Notes. Frontis. of Louis de Planque. Numerous photographs. First edition, first printing. Very fine in an equally nice dust jacket. The bulk of the book focuses on the clashes between Union and Confederate troops along the Rio Grande. The Civil War on the Rio Grande frontier began in Zapata County only days after the first shots were fired at Fort Sumter, and the conflict ended at Palmito Ranch more than a month after Lee’s surrender at Appomattox. In, what is considered the final battle of the Civil War, Confederate forces led by Col. John S. “Rip” Ford defeated the Union forces under Col. Theodore H. Barrett. The book examines the military, social, and economic aspects of the War, particularly the Confederate efforts to maintain the lucrative cotton trade and ensure a steady supply of supplies. The turbulent post-Civil War years are discussed from the perspectives of individuals on both sides of the border, but the primary emphasis is on the continuing struggle in Mexico between the Liberal and Imperial forces. In addition, the horrible devastation of the great hurricane of October 7, 1867, is chronicled in detail. Not to be dismissed is the importance of the photographs in this book. Most of the 125+ images have never been published before and are critical in telling the story. This book will appeal to students of U.S. Mexico relations, the Civil War in the Trans-Mississippi region, and the wartime cross-border trade not to mention the photograph enthusiasts.