Civil War in Texas and New Mexico Territory

Civil War in Texas and New Mexico Territory; by Steve Cottrell and Illustrated by Andy Thomas; Published: 1998, Reprinted: 2004; Softcover; 112 pp; 5.5x8.25; ISBN 9781565542532; 37 illus. 10 photos, Map, Appendix, Biblio., and Index; Item PP532

“There is enough detail to give the reader a clear understanding of the war in the far west, which tends to be a forgotten subject.” Civil War Courier

Did you know that eleven days before Fort Sumter, South Carolina, was fired upon, the Civil War had already begun in Texas?

The Civil War in the West has not been the focus of much attention, but it was the location of fierce fighting and stormy conflicts. Not everyone wanted to secede from the Union, although between sixty and seventy thousand Texans volunteered to take up arms. Sam Houston, governor of the territory in 1861, opposed secession and was forced out after the legislature approved it. Texas troops proceeded to conquer the New Mexico Territory (all of the present-day states of New Mexico and Arizona) for the Confederacy.

The war was all the more difficult in the West, because they had a unique problem: defending themselves from hostile Native Americans and Mexican bandits while also fighting the Federal forces. Many skirmishes were fought against those enemies.

This exciting volume tells all about the war in Texas and New Mexico Territory: the intense combat, the brilliant strategies, and the heroic soldiers who fought for their homeland.

About the Author and Illustrator

Steve Cottrell is a descendant of a cavalry member who served during the Civil War. He has participated in several battle reenactments, including the Academy Award-winning motion picture, Glory.